Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages Episode Summary: "Fiend in the Fire" Release Date: January 17, 2025
Host/Author: Amanda Weldon / Daniel Hines
Produced by: Starglow Media / Wondery

Introduction

In the episode titled "Fiend in the Fire," the Stories Podcast delivers an original tale inspired by English folklore. Written by Daniel Hines and masterfully performed by Amanda Weldon, this episode immerses listeners into the mystical world of AD Merlin, a magical school hidden deep within a bubbling swamp. Designed for children of all ages, the story blends adventure, magic, and valuable lessons, making it an engaging listen for both kids and their parents.

Setting the Scene: AD Merlin's Enchanted Library

The story unfolds within AD Merlin, a venerable school for magic established by the legendary wizard Merlin. Nestled in a swamp that smells of ancient earth and bubbles like a witch's cauldron, the castle's only accessible pathway is through a flickering will-o'-the-wisp, ensuring only those with a touch of magic can find it.

Amanda Weldon introduces the setting:

"Once upon a time, in the misty ages of old, there was a school for magic... The school was called AD Merlin after its founder, the legendary wizard Merlin."
[00:03:21]

The heart of the story takes place late one night in the castle's sprawling library—a labyrinth of books, scrolls, and magical tomes spread across three floors, resembling an overgrown wild forest teeming with knowledge.

Introducing the Characters

Two central characters reside in this enchanted library:

1. Romy: A spirited student who feels confined by traditional studies and yearns for more exciting magical pursuits.
2. Mitchell: Romy's diligent friend, tasked by the headmaster to help Romy improve her reading skills.

Dialogue Highlights:

• Romy expresses her frustration:

  "Remind me why I'm wasting my Friday night in the library?"
  [00:03:21]

• Mitchell responds with obligation:

  "First of all, I'm not pretending to read. I'm actually reading."
  [00:04:45]

The Forbidden Book and the Awakening of Ciri

As Romy and Mitchell navigate the maze-like library, their discontent leads Romy to a locked section guarded by magical wards. Ignoring warnings, Romy succumbs to her curiosity and interacts with a particularly enchanting book bound in scaly red leather, adorned with a curling horn.

Romy's Temptation:

"Think of it, Mitchell... Just one."
[00:08:32]

Unbeknownst to them, this act breaks the enchantments, unleashing Ciri, a demon confined within the book. Ciri manifests as a fearsome flame creature, shaking the very foundation of the library with her presence.

Ciri's First Declaration:

"Freedom."
[00:10:17]

The Challenge: Three Tasks to Free Ciri

Ciri confronts Romy and Mitchell, presenting them with a dire ultimatum:

"You must set me three tasks. If I can complete them all before the sun rises, I am free from this prison, free to return to my underworld, and free to bring you two with me."
[00:10:55]

Task 1: Counting Every Grain of Rice

Ciri's first task seems insurmountable as Mitchell is instructed to count all the grains of rice in the storerooms beneath the school.

Mitchell's Dilemma:

"Count the rice? Romy asked. What? How? Why?"
[00:12:01]

Mitchell, though overwhelmed, accepts the challenge, knowing that failure could mean dire consequences.

Task 2: Mowing the Entire Lawn with Fingers

Romy devises a plan to tackle the second task by suggesting they mow the school's expansive lawns using only their fingers—a task that Ciri finds amusingly simple.

Romy's Creative Solution:

"You have to mow the entire lawn of the school," Romy declared with determination.
[00:16:33]

Ciri, underestimating the duo, effortlessly completes this task in an instant by snapping two fingers, showcasing her formidable power.

Ciri's Mockery:

"That was even faster than counting the rice. What hope did they have?"
[00:17:04]

The Turning Point: Intervention by the Librarian

As the final hour looms, and Ciri's threat of dragging them to the underworld intensifies, an unexpected savior emerges. The head librarian, a wise and powerful witch with a long nose, warty brow, and glowing eyes, confronts Ciri.

Librarian's Challenge:

"We have a temple on the fifth floor with holy books from religions across the world. Why don't you go and just read one of those real quick?"
[00:19:00]

With calm authority, the librarian re-seals Ciri back into the book, restoring peace to the library.

Ciri's Defeat:

"That's why we keep your book locked up. You're such an annoyance."
[00:18:25]

Resolution: Lessons Learned and Returning to Studies

The librarian advises Romy and Mitchell to continue their studies, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and caution when dealing with powerful magic.

Romy's Admission:

"It was my fault. I was bored reading and I wanted something a little more exciting."
[00:19:41]

Librarian's Counsel:

"Were not in trouble? Well, you've learned your lesson, I think."
[00:19:57]

The students reflect on their adventurous night, realizing the value of their education and the perils of unchecked curiosity.

Themes and Insights

"Fiend in the Fire" weaves several compelling themes suitable for young listeners:

1. Curiosity vs. Responsibility: Romy's desire for excitement leads her to break rules, highlighting the balance between exploration and adhering to guidelines.
2. Friendship and Support: Mitchell's role underscores the importance of helping friends, even when faced with daunting challenges.
3. Courage and Resourcefulness: The intervention by the librarian showcases bravery and the ability to confront powerful adversaries.
4. Consequences of Actions: The story emphasizes that actions, especially those taken without consideration, can have significant repercussions.

Notable Quotes

• Romy's Frustration:

  "Remind me why I'm wasting my Friday night in the library?"
  [00:03:21]

• Ciri's Threat:

  "You must set me three tasks..."
  [00:10:55]

• Librarian's Wisdom:

  "Why don't you go and just read one of those real quick?"
  [00:19:00]

• Romy's Realization:

  "I was bored reading and I wanted something a little more exciting."
  [00:19:41]

Conclusion

"Fiend in the Fire" delivers a captivating narrative that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on responsibility, friendship, and the consequences of one's actions. Through the enchanting setting of AD Merlin and the engaging characters of Romy and Mitchell, young listeners are encouraged to embrace their curiosity while understanding the importance of caution and support.

Amanda Weldon's narration brings the story to life, making it a perfect bedtime tale for imaginative families seeking quality, screen-free entertainment.

Support and Further Engagement To support the Stories Podcast and access more enchanting stories, listeners are encouraged to leave a five-star review on iTunes, explore merchandise at storiespodcast.com Shop, and follow the podcast on Instagram at storiespodcast. Additionally, fans can commission personalized video messages via Cameo and explore other shows like Stories RPG for more interactive adventures.