Summary of Episode: RQ Network Feed Drop – Ain't Slayed Nobody

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Magnus Archives
• Host/Author: Rusty Quill
• Description: “Make your statement, face your fear.” The Magnus Archives is a weekly horror fiction audiodrama podcast exploring the mysterious and esoteric archives of the Magnus Institute. Hosted by Jonathan Sims, the series delves into supernatural and eldritch horrors through a blend of horror, mystery, tragedy, and romance, captivating millions worldwide. The continuation, The Magnus Protocol, began in January 2024, with Season 2 currently airing.

Episode Overview: RQ Network Feed Drop – Ain't Slayed Nobody is a collaborative episode featuring an actual play podcast set in the American Old West. This episode merges tabletop role-playing with immersive audio drama, presenting a narrative filled with tension, character dynamics, and emerging cosmic horrors.

Key Sections:

1. Introduction to the Episode (00:00 - 00:55)

   • Anousheh Battersby introduces the episode, highlighting its gold-award-winning status and setting in the Old West.
   • The story begins with a posse embarking on a quest alongside Deputy Sheriff Ellie Bishop on the Canatillo railroad bridge, unaware of the impending cosmic threats.

2. Setting the Scene (00:55 - 03:25)

   • Narrator paints a vivid picture of Canastro, a town beset by unusual activities and fleeing strangers harboring unsettling stories (02:37).
   • The backstory of Sheriff Bishop’s daughter, Ellie, is established, revealing her determination to avenge her father's unsolved murder by Colin Brock (02:37).

3. Character Introductions (03:25 - 09:09)

   • Game Master introduces six individuals atop the Canatillo railroad bridge:

     • Maxwell Posey: Bound and waiting execution.
     • Ellie Bishop: Deputy Sheriff, driven by loyalty and vengeance.
     • Lance Kilkenny: A morally conflicted outlaw from Ireland (05:21).
     • Johnny Rhodes (Chuck): A scruffy hobo drifter with a mysterious past (06:36).
     • Jeremiah Fensworth Yar: A nomadic miner with a penchant for violence (07:38).
     • Father Flint Westwater: A deceitful priest with questionable morals (08:34).

   • Notable Quote:

     Ellie Bishop (04:13): “I'm a charming, very focused, very guarded woman. Completely driven by a need to protect those around her.”

4. Initial Confrontation and Execution (09:09 - 17:01)

   • Father Flint administers last rites to Maxwell Posey, who remains defiant (08:57 - 09:18).
   • Tensions rise as the posse debates the execution method, culminating in Maxwell’s cryptic last words referencing Colin Brock’s location.
   • Notable Quote:

     Maxwell Posey (10:59): “Y'all fixin to kill me unarmed like a dog, and I shoulda gone down fightin' for the yellow belly who turned me over.”

5. Ambush and Conflict (17:01 - 26:57)

   • An unexpected ambush occurs as two riders attack the posse from the opposite side of the bridge (18:10).
   • Lance Kilkenny is wounded, sparking chaotic defensive maneuvers and futile attempts to fend off the attackers.
   • Notable Quote:

     Ellie Bishop (16:00): “I'm not the one actually doing it right. Like I have my crew who can take care of it.”

6. Investigations and Tactical Decisions (26:57 - 39:51)

   • The posse grapples with the aftermath of the ambush, debating whether to investigate Maxwell Posey further or focus on the body’s mysterious significance (32:34).
   • Jeremiah attempts necromancy to extract information, leading to his unsuccessful efforts and Maxwell’s continued demise.
   • Notable Quote:

     Jeremiah Fensworth Yar (34:03): “I reckon in the mines, people be falling down and getting all scuffed up and nothing.”

7. Journey to Olvido (39:51 - 46:58)

   • The group uncovers a map hinting at the origin of the threat in Olvido, located northwest in New Mexico (42:49).
   • Debates ensue over the next steps, with motivations clearly aligning towards vengeance against Colin Brock (45:10).
   • Notable Quote:

     Ellie Bishop (45:25): “Yeah. Come on.”

8. Character Dynamics and Progression (46:58 - 52:13)

   • As the posse prepares to journey toward Olvido, internal conflicts and humorous exchanges highlight character personalities and alliances (47:05).
   • The group sets forth on their horses, leaving behind the remnants of Maxwell Posey and embracing the unknown challenges ahead (50:37).

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ellie Bishop (04:13): “I'm a charming, very focused, very guarded woman. Completely driven by a need to protect those around her.”
• Maxwell Posey (10:59): “Y'all fixin to kill me unarmed like a dog, and I shoulda gone down fightin' for the yellow belly who turned me over.”
• Ellie Bishop (16:00): “I'm not the one actually doing it right. Like I have my crew who can take care of it.”
• Jeremiah Fensworth Yar (34:03): “I reckon in the mines, people be falling down and getting all scuffed up and nothing.”
• Ellie Bishop (45:25): “Yeah. Come on.”

Conclusion: The episode masterfully combines rich character development with dynamic storytelling, set against the backdrop of the Old West infused with supernatural elements. As the posse ventures towards Olvido, tensions remain high, alliances are tested, and the looming presence of cosmic horrors promises thrilling developments in future episodes.

For those new to The Magnus Archives, this episode exemplifies the series' ability to blend horror, mystery, and intricate character interactions, making it a standout addition to the podcast’s illustrious catalog.

Additional Listening: Explore more episodes and the extensive lore of Ain't Slayed Nobody across ten additional seasons, featuring diverse RPG systems and unique settings. Available wherever podcasts are streamed or visit rustyquill.com.