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In today’s episode, we’ll be looking at Huli Jing, Chinese nine-tailed foxes. According to mythology, these creatures are fox spirits that are capable of shapeshifting. There’s a belief that— under the right circumstances— all things are capable of taking on a human form, and Huli Jing are no different. They go around searing for human skulls, and if they find one that fits just right, it will allow them to transform into a beautiful woman.This week’s story is called “Miss Lien-Hsiang,” and it’s by Songling Pu.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald. Additional music: "Temple of Hangzhou" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com. Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

There’s been a delay with the upcoming episode, but— not to fear!— it’s in the works. The next episode will be released next Wednesday, January 27th. Apologies for the delay, and I appreciate your support!

The Sugar Plum Fairy is a funny character. Despite being one of the primary figures in The Nutcracker, we don’t get to know much about her. What’s her deal? What’s her connection to sugar plums? What does she want? None of these questions are answered, really. So, for this episode, I’m going to give our favorite Christmas candy queen the spotlight and investigate her backstory.This week’s story is called “The Land of Sweets,” and it’s by Niall Cooper.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald. Additional music: "Christmas Fairy" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workDance of the Sugar Plum Fairies Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Finally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com. Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Today, we’ll be looking at mermaids. You’ve probably heard plenty of stories about them, and I’m certain I don’t need to paint you a picture of their human-top, fish-bottom bodies. But if you’re like me, and you grew up with Disney or Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tale-take on these famous creatures, you might only know part of the story. Not all mermaids are stunning sea-dwellers with a heart of gold.This week’s story is called “The Mermaid and the Boy,” and it’s from Andrew Lang’s The Brown Fairy Book.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald. Additional music: "Waterside Harmony" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com. Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

I’ve long been fascinated by mesmerism, and in today’s show, I’m going to focus on those who are on the receiving end of this practice. I’m talking of somnolites, the fancy name for those in a state of hypnotic sleep. This week’s story is called “The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar,” and it was written by Edgar Allan Poe.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald. Additional music: "Dark Shadows" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com. Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week we’re going to look at a famous Japanese folktale: Momotarō, the story of the “peach boy.”This week’s story is called "The Peach's Son,” and it was first published in a book called Myths and Legends of Japan, by F. Hadland Davis.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald. Additional music: "Call of the Mountains" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original work“Momotarō’s Song” was recorded by Kaihsu Tai in 2016.Finally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com. Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Here in the states, we talk a lot about the witch trials in Salem, but Scotland has a vast and dark history with witches, too. Today, we’re going to zero in on the folklore and history of witches in Scotland, known as bana-bhuidseach.Niall Cooper joins the show to read an excerpt from Robert Burns’ “Tam O’Shanter.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Learn more about the Central European witch trials, check out this video by Eventful Globe.Additional music: "Gothic Horror" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

It’s been months and months since our last episode, but we’re back. And today, in honor of Halloween (and our show being resurrected from the dead), we’ll be looking at zombies.Today’s episode features an excerpt from William Seabrook’s The Magic Island.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Nightmare" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In Iceland, you won’t find much talk of Santa Claus or St. Nicholas. Instead, the holidays are ruled by a child-eating giantess named Gryla, her 13 sons - trolls collectively known as the Yule Lads - and their bloodthirsty feline, the Yule Cat.Today’s episode features an original story written by Niall Cooper.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Christmas Emotion" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week we’re feeling the holiday spirit here at Figmentals headquarters. In honor of the upcoming holidays, today’s episode is going to be Christmas-themed. But we’re not going to be talking smiling, rosy-cheeked bringers of yuletide cheer. Oh, no. Instead, today we’re going to take a look at the darker side of the season. So, let’s venture into Christmas’ creepy underbelly— and meet Krampus. Krampus is a half-goat, half-demon figure who’s covered in dark fur. He has cloven hooves and giant horns, and his long red tongue dangles, sagging from the side of his fanged mouth. But before you catch a glimpse of him, you’re likely to hear him coming: he carries chains that he clanks and thrashes around for dramatic effect. He also carries a stick, called a ruten, that he uses to swat naughty children. Perhaps most terrifyingly, however, is the sack he carries on his back. He uses this to collect the naughty children so he can cart them away. But to where? Some say he takes them home to eat. Others say they’re going straight to hell.Today’s episode features an original poem written by Lindsey Morse.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Christmas Wonder" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Each episode, we dive into the folklore and history of a different legendary creature and share a story about it, and this week, in honor of Thanksgiving, we’re taking inspiration from well-stocked tables and harvest bounty to look at a figure known to some North American indigenous agricultural tribes as being responsible for the origin of maize: the Corn Mother.Today’s episode features a story that’s adapted from an Abenaki legend called “The First People and the First Corn.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Eastern Karma" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Today we’re going to be looking at a creature that’s always given me a mad case of the heebie jeebies— The Changeling. Picture this: your young child, who has always been happy and healthy, all of the sudden one day seems… different. Once content and carefree, the little one is now irritable and grouchy. As time passes, the poor youngster doesn’t seem to be growing at all, and instead looks weak and sickly. Could it be a disease? An undiagnosed disorder? Maybe. Or perhaps the fairies have swapped your healthy, vibrant child for one of their own, a changeling.Today’s episode features a story from J. F. Campbell’s 1901 collection Popular Tales of the West Highlands, “The Smith and the Fairies.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Make sure to check out Spirits, a boozy podcast about mythology, legends, and folklore. Find out more about the show at https://spiritspodcast.com.Additional music: "Introspection" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original work and "Moonrise" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

The subject of our show today might just be the creepiest so far: jikininki. Unlike a lot of the monsters from legend, Japanese jikininki aren’t scary because of the danger they pose. If you come face to face with one, it’s likely to freeze with fear— the old saying, it’s more afraid of you than you are of it rings true in this case— and if you’re healthy and, well— alive— there’s nothing a jikininki wants from you. No, these spirits are not particularly dangerous; however, their sheer existence is a troubling reminder to live a selfless, altruistic life. Because if you’re greedy, you might one day become just like them.Today’s episode features a story from Lafcadio Hearn’s Kwaidan: Stories and Studies of Strange Things.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Samurai Warrior" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week, we’re going to be looking at my favorite weaver from classical mythology, Arachne. Arachne was a mortal weaver, famous for her skill and innovation— she is credited with the invention of linen and nets. But Arachne was a proud woman, and boasted that her talent was greater than that of any other weaver, even Athena, goddess of wisdom and crafts. This— are we really surprised— got quickly back to Athena, who scoffed at the suggestion that she was second best at anything and quickly challenged Arachne to a weaving duel.Today’s episode features a story from James Baldwin’s 1895 Old Greek Stories.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.If you enjoy creepy TRUE stories of murder, mystery, and the macabre, check out Fresh Hell Podcast. You’ll find a promo in this week’s episode, and you can learn more about the show on their website, https://freshhellpodcast.com.Additional music: "The Rice Fields" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Over the course of the last several weeks, we’ve looked at Frankenstein’s Monster, the Headless Horseman, mummies, and werewolves, and today we’re rounding out our Halloween-themed episodes by looking at a monster that’s captivated audiences for over a hundred years— Count Dracula. Count Dracula is the invention of Bram Stoker, who featured the famous villain in his 1897 novel, Dracula, but vampires have existed— in some form— in nearly every culture throughout history. From Africa to Asia and Ancient Rome to Mesopotamia, pretty much everywhere you look you’ll find some form of vampiric creature, but Count Dracula, the Transylvanian count and undead, centuries old vampire, is really the grandfather of the creature we think of today.Today’s episode features an excerpt from Bram Stoker’s Dracula.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Today’s story was read by Verity Clayton, host of Scary Stories Podcast. Find Scary Stories Podcast on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts.Additional music: "Gothic Horror" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In this episode, we’re traveling to Egypt, land of the pyramids and the ancient stomping ground of the pharaohs, to look at a monster that’s perhaps more real than any creature we’ve explored so far on this show— the mummy. As early as 2800 bc, deliberate mummification became an integral part of Egyptian death rituals, and was a key aspect of religion. The Egyptians believed that preserving the body was necessary if one wished to ensure immortality, and the mummified body was buried with luxury goods and wealth that could be utilized by the deceased in the afterlife. Of course, these real world mummies are quite a departure from the idea of the “monster mummy”— the undead, bandaged, revenge-seeking creature that spooks in the shadows. This mummy is something else entirely, and a relatively modern creation.Our story today is one of our original creations. It’s called “The Curator and the Curse of Cairo.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Paranoia" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week, we’re taking inspiration from one of my favorite Halloween classics: Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” As you probably already know, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” follows the misadventures of Ichabod Crane, a superstitious schoolmaster who comes face-to-face with the Galloping Hessian of the Hollow— better known as the Headless Horseman— a specter that’s believed to haunt the area near the town of Sleepy Hollow in New York’s Hudson Valley. Like many great scary stories, this one has roots intertwined in both fiction and reality; and looking back, it’s now difficult to determine just how much of the legend was invented by Irving. Given the history of that part of New York, it’s pretty clear the story was inspired— at least in part— by real life events.Our story today is an excerpt from “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing, and was also our guest storyteller for this episode. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Creepy Hollow" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Today, we’re going to talk about a shape-shifter whose widespread legend has captivated minds for centuries, the werewolf. It’s a story we all know well: an unlucky someone is bitten or cursed and becomes a slave to the lunar cycle. Every full moon, he transforms into a wolf and roams the night, hunting. Try as he might to avoid the inevitable transformation— perhaps by hiding from the moon’s bright glow, maybe locking himself away in an isolated place— there is only one true escape, a silver bullet to the heart.Our story today is an adaptation of Eugene Field’s short story, “The Werewolf.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing, and was also our guest storyteller for this episode. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "House on the Hill" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

We’re kicking off our Halloween-themed October episodes by looking at Frankenstein, or— more accurately— Dr. Frankenstein’s monster. If you took a random poll asking people what Frankenstein’s monster looks like, I’m certain most people would immediately start describing the large, green-hued creature with neck bolts and a flat-top black & white hairdo, that was made famous by the hit 1931 film. This is the Frankenstein that usually inspires Halloween costumes— can you really imagine a Frankenstein costume without green skin?— but the creature was originally envisioned rather differently.Our story today is an excerpt from Chapter 5 of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing, and was also our guest storyteller for this episode. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Sardonicus" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workThis week I’m moonlighting as a guest movie reviewer on One Movie Punch. I stepped in to review Scream, Wes Craven’s 1996 American slasher film. To check out what i had to say about this iconic scary movie, visit: http://onemoviepunch.com.Finally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week, we’re talking about the golem, a creature found in Jewish folklore that’s built out of inanimate material— often mud or dirt— and brought to life by magic. The golem can be traced all the way back to ancient times, and it even makes an appearance in the Old Testament. We are told that Adam’s first 12 hours of existence are spent as a golem— meaning “body without a soul.” It’s not until god breathes life into him that he becomes a man. This idea of the hollow vessel, not yet animated by the spark of life, births the idea of the golem made famous in folklore. Over time, stories emerged of men creating golems out of raw materials— like dirt, ash, mud, rock, or wood— and bringing these creatures to life to carry out their bidding.This week’s episode features “The Rabbi’s Bogey-Man” by Gertrude Lana.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Reiki Healing" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Medusa’s horrible, snake-framed visage has made an indelible imprint on history, and even though her legend has been around for 3000 years or more, her’s is still a household name. She’s most famous for her mane of living, venomous snakes, which sit atop her head in place of hair. And her ability to turn onlookers to stone is legendary.This week’s episode features an excerpt from James Baldwin’s Old Greek Stories.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Shifting Sands" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.com.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In this episode, we’re going to explore the hidden world of the huldufólk, a race of elves found in Icelandic and Faroese folklore. Legends of the huldufólk have been around since the time of the Vikings. These elven creatures are said to live alongside mankind, though they remain invisible to the average person.This week’s episode features an original story by Lindsey Morse and Niall Cooper called “The Gift of the Huldufólk.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.A special thanks to Kate Wallinga, host of the Ignorance was Bliss podcast, for coming on the show as our guest storyteller this week. Check out Ignorance was Bliss at https://iwbpodcast.com.If you’d like to learn more about Iceland’s hidden people, I recommend checking out Eventful Globe, which covers events and festivals around the world. The jet-setting, globe-trotters at Eventful Globe recently traveled to Iceland to learn more about Þrettándinn, an annual holiday celebrating elves, and they even attended Reykjavík’s Elf School, where they learned all about the creatures we talked about in this week’s episode. Check out their Þrettándinn video, and find other events by visiting the Eventful Globe website.Additional music: "A New World" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workFinally, make sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In this episode, we look at the thunderbird, an extremely large supernatural creature of great power and strength, best known for its ability to control the weather. The legend of the thunderbird is widespread throughout the traditions of native people throughout America and Canada, but it is especially important and most frequently depicted in the Native American legends from the pacific northwest. Because the thunderbird belongs to so many different cultures, legends can vary pretty widely; though there are certain commonalities. In most cases, thunderbirds are able to control the weather, and each flap of their giant wings creates a clap of thunder— hence their name. In most cases, they are seen as protectors, bringing beneficial rains that help nourish crops and ward off drought; however, they can also be vengeful. They’re often described as enforcers of morality, and if you happen to be a person of low moral integrity— you better run if you see a thunderbird coming. They might bring punishment in the form of lightening, strong winds, or floods.This week’s episode features two stories. The first is called “Thunderbird Turns People to Stone” and is adapted from a tale that was published in a 1933 edition of The Journal of American Folklore from an article titled “Tales from the Hoh and Quileute.” The second story is called “The Last of the Thunderbirds” and was first published in 1911 in Katharine Berry Judson’s book, Myths and Legends of Alaska.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Pacific Whalesong" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In today’s episode, we’re peeking into the caves of Northern India to visit U Thlen, an evil spirt that exists in the form of a giant, man-eating snake. Under normal circumstances, I think it’s safe to say that most people would do their darnedest to avoid the lair of a known demon snake, but— unfortunately— that wasn’t an option for certain residents of Meghalaya. You see, the local market took place in a village only accessible by a sacred bridge that crossed right by the entrance to U Thlen’s cave. Anyone wishing to buy or sell goods at market would have to journey past. And sure enough, the snake would be waiting.This week’s story is by our very own Niall Cooper. It’s called “The Oath of U Thlen.”This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Spiritual India" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

Smack dab in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, at the southern tip of the Italian peninsula, the toe of the Italian boot very nearly meets the island of Sicily. These two land masses are separated by a narrow section of water called the Strait of Messina, a busy little waterway regularly traversed by cruise ships, fishing boats, cargo vessels, and private yachts. If you stand on one side of the straight, you can look out and watch these ships pass by, and if you want to travel across the straight to visit Sicily from the Italian mainland, you can hop any one of the regular ferries that depart Calabria for Italy’s largest island.But travel on this now-bustling little waterway wasn’t always so common.Back in ancient Greece, travelers avoided the Strait of Messina at all costs because it was believed to be home to two deadly monsters: Charybdis & Scylla.This week’s story is from Homer’s The Odyssey.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Chimera" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In this episode, we look at one of the most famous legendary creatures of all time— the unicorn. Unicorns are an interesting study, because pretty much everyone knows what they look like and *thinks* they know a thing or two about them. But, I can assure you, there’s more to the history and lore of this incredible beast than pinterest-friendly cakes, glittery kid’s toys, and regal heraldry. The legendary unicorn has been making appearances in cultures across the world since antiquity, and in this episode we’re going to look at how this famous creature has been depicted throughout art and history. We’ll explore some of the strange, often overlooked aspects of unicorn lore, and we’ll ask why this fantastical creature — after so many centuries— still holds such a special place in our hearts.This week’s story is “The Unicorn Cure” by Lindsey Morse.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Crystal Waters" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In today’s episode, we look at Rakshasas, man-eating goblins from India. Rakshasas have long, curling fangs that protrude from the corners of their lips, wickedly long claws, and- sometimes- sharp horns. The strongest and most powerful might even have glowing eyes, extra limbs, and a few additional heads. But the danger doesn’t stop there. Rakshasas are powerful magicians, and are able to fly, disappear, or alter their appearance at will. And they will happily utilize these deceptions in their cannibalistic quest for human blood.This week’s story is “The Goblin City” by W. H. D. Rouse.This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Mongolia" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In today’s episode, we’re heading to the Middle East to visit the Rukh, a gigantic bird of prey big enough to block out the sun. Said to resemble an eagle, but much larger and stronger, the Rukh is believed to hail from the island of Madagscar, and is said to feast on elephants, giant snakes, and— sometimes— even men. It has a forked, snake-like tongue, and a sharp, pointy beak.This week’s story is from: One Thousand and One Nights: The Seven Voyages of Sinbad the SailorThis episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Infinite Ocean" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workMake sure to check out our sister show, Assassinations Podcast: www.assassinationspodcast.comVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week, we’re traveling to Asia to visit the baku, a Japanese chimera who feasts on nightmares. Legend has it that baku were created from leftover parts when the gods were finished making all the other animals. As you might suspect, this means baku are quite a sight to behold. A mishmash of species, baku are said to have a bear’s body, an elephant’s trunk, a tiger’s paws, an ox’s tail, and the eyes of a rhinoceros. But despite their freakish appearance, baku are not inherently ill-willed. In fact, because they subsist on bad dreams, they’re often summoned by children who’ve been woken by nightmares.This week’s story: “Midnight Snack” by Lindsey Morse & Niall CooperThis episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Oriental Skies" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workCheck out our sister show: Assassinations Podcast.Visit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

In this episode, we take a look at Baba Yaga. Baba Yaga is a supernatural, wicked witch-type character from Slavic folklore who is most often depicted as a deformed old hag. She lives deep in the forest in a hut that stands on chicken legs, and she can fly around using a broom or a mortar and pestle.This week’s story: “Baba Yaga” by Verra Xenophontovna Kalamatiano de BlumenthalThis episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Time Perception" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original work & "The Hut on Hen's Legs" by Modest Musskorgsky is in the Public DomainVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

This week, we’re going to look at the bunyip, a large mythical creature— sometimes described as a spirit— from Australian Aboriginal mythology, which is said to lurk in swamps, billabongs, creeks, riverbeds, and waterholes.This week’s story: “The Bunyip” by Andrew LangThis episode also included an excerpt from the poem:“The Bunyip” by Oodergoo Noonuccal. You can hear the author reading her poem here: https://www.loc.gov/item/91740839This episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Uluru" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

The kelpie is a shape-shifting water spirit that is said to inhabit the lochs, rivers, and pools of Scotland. Underneath the surface of the water, the kelpie lives in its true, monstrous form, but passers-by beware… the malevolent kelpie can transform at will into a beautiful human or a majestic horse. In these guises, the kelpie does it’s best to lure victims to a watery grave.This week’s story: “The Kelpie and the 10 Children” by Lindsey Morse & Niall CooperThis episode also included an excerpt from:“Address to the Deil” by Robert BurnsThis episode was researched and written by Lindsey Morse. Niall Cooper assists with writing and editing. Our theme music was composed by Graeme Ronald.Additional music: "Secret Escapes" by Purple Planet is licensed under CC BY 3.0 / A derivative from the original workVisit our website: www.fabfigmentals.comSupport us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/fabfigmentalsFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/figmentalsFind us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fabfigmentals

The show launches Wednesday, July 10rd with three episodes to download. The first episodes will feature: the kelpie, a malevolent water-dwelling creature that haunts Scotland’s lochs, the bunyip, an Australian Aboriginal spirit, and Baba Yaga, the slavic “wicked witch.”New episodes drop every Wednesday, and you’ll find the podcast on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, and pretty much any other podcatcher. Subscribe now to make sure you get new episodes as soon as they’re released.