The Wicked Library · 9th Story Studios LLC

TWL X2-2024: “The Lure of the Star” and “A Visit from Yulthar’Niklas”, by Damos Vrynn

December 25, 2024·18 min·1 clip

The moment when innocent flesh melts away to reveal something ancient and hungry underneath.

The Wicked Library presents a Christmas special featuring two original horror stories by Daniel Foytek. The episode opens with the host explaining these are Yuletide gifts for friends who supported him through difficult times, helping him return from hiatus. The first tale, 'The Lure of the Star,' reframes the biblical nativity story through a Lovecraftian lens. Three wise men follow what they believe is a divine star, but discover it's actually the craft of a trickster god leading them astray. The child they seek is revealed as a cosmic gateway where opposing forces battle for reality's control. Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh are metaphysical weapons meant to bind this nascent threat. When they arrive, the infant transforms into a writhing mass of black ichor with multiple eyes and mouths, nearly consuming hope itself before the true light emerges victorious. The narrator explains this cosmic battle replays endlessly across realities, sometimes with different outcomes. The second story, 'A Visit from Yultha,' corrupts the beloved 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' poem. Instead of jolly Santa, a sinister figure arrives with a sleigh made of bones, guided by dark beasts. This malevolent Santa erects a twisted Christmas tree decorated with the decayed, topped with a grinning skull. He brings cursed gifts like eyeless dolls and music boxes playing despairing tunes. Rather than leaving presents, he steals dreams from sleeping children, his boots leaving marks that echo with ancient wails. The creature departs cackling 'Ho ho ho, merry to all, and to all a dread-filled night.' Both stories serve as warnings about the fragility of existence and the importance of vigilance against chaos. The episode concludes with information about supporting the podcast and submission guidelines for future seasons.

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