Old Gods of Appalachia - Episode 69: "Nice and Easy"

Release Date: May 16, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 69, titled "Nice and Easy," of the horror-anthology podcast Old Gods of Appalachia, hosts Steve Schell and DJ Rogers delve deeper into the dark and mysterious happenings in their Alternate Appalachia setting. This episode weaves a tale of deceit, supernatural undertones, and familial tensions, all set against the backdrop of the ominous Appalachian mountains.

Plot Overview

The episode centers around Doc Underwood and his associate, Nicodemus "Nicky" Hart, as they embark on a seemingly straightforward job to acquire antiques and occult artifacts from the estate of the late Olivine Maxwell. Their plan involves gaining the trust of the widow's family to facilitate the acquisition of valuable items.

Key Events:

1. Arrival at Maxwell's Farmhouse (00:53 – 05:30):

   • Setting the Scene: Doc and Nicky arrive at a dilapidated farmhouse under Mount Mitchell, expecting a single occupant. Instead, they encounter a bustling operation where workers are efficiently loading antiques into wagons.
   • Initial Interaction: A laborer greets them hesitantly, questioning the ease of the job, hinting at underlying complications. Nicky explains that Olivine Maxwell passed away three days prior, leading to a tax and bank foreclosure on her property.

   Nicky Hart (00:53): "Sweet old lady with no clue of what she had and so forth."

2. Deception and Acquisition (05:31 – 15:20):

   • Manipulating Credibility: Doc and Nicky switch their business cards to present themselves as government officials rather than antique buyers, allowing them to commandeer valuable items without resistance.
   • Confrontation with the Bank President: They engage Homer Yeltin, the president of Bakersfield Bank and Trust, ensuring the bank's cooperation in seizing Maxwell's assets.

   Jack (Doc's associate) (10:15): "I take it this here is the bank come to get its share before the government can claim all the choice bits for themselves?"

3. Division of Spoils and Uneven Haul (15:21 – 25:45):

   • Extracting Items: Doc and Nicky successfully retrieve a heavy steamer trunk filled with assorted antiques. However, discrepancies in the inventory list reveal that some of the more intriguing items are missing.
   • Personal Selections: Doc is particularly drawn to a pinky ring with inscriptions, which becomes a focal point of his personal story and foreshadows future events.

   Doc Underwood (22:40): "Paterfamilias. That suits me just fine."

4. Return to Oak Mountain and Family Dynamics (25:46 – 35:10):

   • Homecoming: Doc returns to his home at Oak Mountain, where his wife, Marigold, expresses concern over his dangerous line of work and upcoming fatherhood.
   • Introduction of the Pinky Ring: The ring Doc acquires symbolizes his new role as a father, blending his personal life with the ominous elements surrounding him.

5. Supernatural Ominous Signs (35:11 – 38:20):

   • Unsettling Occurrences: Strange events begin to unfold at Doc's home, including damaged fence lines and unexplained noises, suggesting a malevolent presence.
   • Climactic Encounter: In a chilling twist, a mysterious figure reminiscent of the "Little Pig" from fairy tales confronts Doc, hinting at the awakening of darker forces tied to the Old Gods of Appalachia.

   Mysterious Figure (Final Minutes): "Little pig, little pig, let me in."

Character Development

• Doc Underwood: Portrayed as a dedicated physician and family man, Doc grapples with the moral complexities of his clandestine activities. The acquisition of the pinky ring signifies his transition into a protective role, both as a father and against supernatural threats.

• Nicky Hart: Nicky serves as the pragmatic counterpart to Doc, showcasing the blend of cunning and opportunism required to navigate their dangerous enterprises.

• Marigold Underwood: As Doc's wife, Marigold embodies the tension between domestic stability and the lurking dangers of their environment, highlighting the personal stakes involved.

Themes and Insights

• Deception and Dual Identities: The episode explores themes of deception as Doc and Nicky conceal their true intentions through false identities, reflecting the broader motif of hidden truths beneath Appalachian society.

• Supernatural Intrusion: The gradual introduction of supernatural elements underscores the podcast's horror roots, suggesting that ancient forces are reawakening in Appalachia.

• Familial Responsibility: Doc's dedication to his family juxtaposes the darkness of his other life, emphasizing the struggle between personal duty and external threats.

Notable Quotes

• Doc Underwood (01:26): "Old gods of Appalachia is a production of DeepNerd Media and is distributed by Rusty Quill."

• Marigold Underwood (34:50): "I don't think that man's ever touched a cook pot in his life. Life gone now. Your mama needs you so."

• Doc Underwood (37:55): "The harvest wind is lonely and walks my road by night with just one name on its side."

Conclusion and Cliffhanger

The episode culminates in a suspenseful ending where Doc faces an ominous presence at his doorstep, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. This cliffhanger sets the stage for the season finale, promising deeper revelations and heightened horror as the true nature of the Old Gods begins to emerge.

Host Commentary (38:20): Steve Schell teases the upcoming finale, hinting at significant plot developments that will challenge the characters' understanding of their reality.

Steve Schell: "What's coming is a lot. It's gonna shake what you think you know about our world down to the foundation, but I think it's gonna be worth it."

Upcoming Events and Promotions

Listeners are encouraged to support the podcast through "The Holler," a new subscription service launched by DeepNerd Media, offering ad-free episodes and exclusive content. Additionally, tickets for the 2024 national tour, "Unhallowed Grounds," are available, providing fans an opportunity to engage with the community live.

Final Thoughts

Episode 69 of Old Gods of Appalachia masterfully blends elements of horror, suspense, and character-driven storytelling. As Doc Underwood navigates the perils of his double life, the episode teases the emergence of ancient evils poised to disrupt the fragile balance of Appalachia. Fans are left eagerly anticipating the season finale, poised to uncover the full extent of the Old Gods' dark influence.

Additional Information

• Production Credits: Written by Steve Shell and Cam Collins. Voice of Doc Underwood by DJ Rogers.
• Music: Intro by Landon Blood and outro "Atonement" by John Charles Dwyer.
• Support and Merchandise: Visit www.oldgodsofappalachia.com for more information, exclusive content, and merch.

Stay tuned for the season finale as Doc Underwood confronts the true horrors lurking in the shadows of Appalachia.