Episode 4.3 - Nostrama

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Road of Shadows – Episode 4.3 "Nostrama"

Title: Nostrama
Host/Author: Mark R. Healy
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Production: Beyond the Dark
Season: 4
Episode: 3

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Overview

In Episode 4.3, titled "Nostrama," of "The Road of Shadows," listeners delve deeper into the enigmatic world of Daniel Knox and Amber as they navigate the perilous landscape of Oakwood. This episode intensifies the suspense by introducing a mysterious figure, Rodrik, and unraveling the complexities of the Nostroma—a group with unique abilities combating the sinister Shadows. The narrative weaves through tense confrontations, revelations about the Shadows' true nature, and the protagonists' evolving understanding of their own powers.

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Key Sections

1. Mysterious Encounter with Rodrik
2. Unraveling Jeffrey Lee's Disappearance
3. Insights into the Nostroma and Their Abilities
4. Revelations About the Shadows and Holoskins
5. Cliffhanger and Ongoing Mysteries

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1. Mysterious Encounter with Rodrik

The episode begins with Daniel and Amber confronting a mysterious individual named Rodrik, who reveals unsettling knowledge about their recent actions (02:44). Rodrik claims authorship of an old book, "The Wicked Devils of Night," linking him directly to the Shadows (02:04). His cryptic demeanor and knowledge about Jeffrey Lee's disappearance raise suspicions.

Notable Quote:

Daniel: "You have got to be shitting me." [01:44]

Rodrik insists he is not blackmailing them but rather offering assistance by disposing of Jeffrey Lee's body, indicating his deeper involvement with the Shadows (03:48).

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2. Unraveling Jeffrey Lee's Disappearance

As Daniel and Amber interrogate Rodrik, it becomes evident that Jeffrey Lee's fate is intricately tied to the Shadows. Rodrik reveals that Jeffrey was not entirely human, hinting at a transformation beyond their understanding (04:17).

Notable Quote:

Rodrik: "The thing hiding in Jeffrey's skin, pretending to be a man. It's better off dead." [04:17]

The protagonists grapple with the truth of Jeffrey's condition, questioning whether Rodrik himself could be a Shadow manipulating them or genuinely seeking to aid their cause (05:03).

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3. Insights into the Nostroma and Their Abilities

The conversation shifts as Rodrik begins to divulge information about the Nostroma, revealing that Daniel and Amber possess unique abilities that link them to an ancient lineage fighting the Shadows. He describes the process of becoming Nostroma, highlighting genetic factors, toxin exposure, and luck as pivotal elements (17:15).

Notable Quote:

Rodrik: "The process of becoming one of the Nostroma is a combination of things. Genetics are involved... The amount of toxin ingested, for example." [17:15]

Rodrik further elaborates on their abilities, showcasing Daniel's power to obliterate Shadows with his axe and Amber's touch that causes Shadows to dissolve (21:08).

Notable Quotes:

Daniel: "They turn to ash. Pretty much instantly." [21:24]
Amber: "My touch causes them to bleed a lot. If I can maintain contact for even a few seconds, their entire body starts to dissolve." [21:42]

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4. Revelations About the Shadows and Holoskins

Rodrik introduces the concept of Holoskins, entities that exist between the human world and the Shadows. He explains that these beings were once human but were corrupted by powerful Shadows, effectively erasing their humanity and turning them into vessels for darkness (24:01).

Notable Quote:

Rodrik: "The term Hollow Skin is apt. Everything that once made Jeffrey human has been eroded, leaving behind an empty vessel." [24:15]

This revelation not only deepens the lore surrounding the Shadows but also raises the stakes for Daniel and Amber as they realize the extent of the threat they face.

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5. Cliffhanger and Ongoing Mysteries

As the episode progresses, Rodrik warns Daniel and Amber about the ancient and powerful Shadows in Oakwood, urging them to leave town to avoid impending doom (26:42). However, the protagonists are determined to uncover the truth, leading to a heated exchange where Rodrik divulges that Jeffrey Lee was a "hollow skin" and emphasizes the rarity and danger of such entities (23:40).

Notable Quote:

Rodrik: "The longer you take to find them, the more opportunity I have to talk you out of this madness." [23:25]

The episode concludes with Rodrik making a cryptic plea for Daniel and Amber to abandon their quest, leaving listeners eager for the next installment to see whether they heed his warnings or press forward into deeper peril.

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Character Dynamics and Development

• Daniel Knox: Continues to exhibit skepticism and caution towards Rodrik, balancing his desire to uncover the truth with the need for self-preservation.

  Notable Moment:
  Daniel: "We are not gonna find answers waiting around here." [07:30]

• Amber: Displays determination and a strong will to pursue the mystery surrounding the Shadows, even in the face of Rodrik's warnings.

  Notable Moment:
  Amber: "I want to know what's going on in Oakwood. What secrets are the shadows hiding here? I'm intrigued." [07:03]

• Rodrik: Serves as the enigmatic guide, providing crucial information about the Nostroma and the Shadows while maintaining an air of mystery about his own past and motives.

  Notable Moment:
  Rodrik: "There is a link between us. Between all of us. You, me, and the wicked ones." [16:40]

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Thematic Elements

• Trust and Deception: The episode explores the fragile trust between protagonists and strangers, questioning Rodrik's true intentions.

• Identity and Transformation: Delving into what it means to be human versus being a Shadow or a Nostroma, highlighting the thin line between humanity and monstrosity.

• Power and Responsibility: Daniel and Amber grapple with the immense power they've inherited and the responsibility it entails in combating the Shadows.

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Conclusion

Episode 4.3 "Nostrama" significantly advances the overarching narrative of "The Road of Shadows," introducing pivotal concepts like the Nostroma and Holoskins while deepening the mystery surrounding the Shadows in Oakwood. Through intense dialogues and character interactions, the episode sets the stage for future confrontations and revelations, keeping listeners engaged and eager for what's to come.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Daniel: "You have got to be shitting me." [01:44]
2. Rodrik: "The thing hiding in Jeffrey's skin, pretending to be a man. It's better off dead." [04:17]
3. Rodrik: "The process of becoming one of the Nostroma is a combination of things. Genetics are involved... The amount of toxin ingested, for example." [17:15]
4. Daniel: "They turn to ash. Pretty much instantly." [21:24]
5. Amber: "My touch causes them to bleed a lot. If I can maintain contact for even a few seconds, their entire body starts to dissolve." [21:42]
6. Rodrik: "The term Hollow Skin is apt. Everything that once made Jeffrey human has been eroded, leaving behind an empty vessel." [24:15]
7. Rodrik: "There is a link between us. Between all of us. You, me, and the wicked ones." [16:40]
8. Rodrik: "The longer you take to find them, the more opportunity I have to talk you out of this madness." [23:25]
9. Amber: "I want to know what's going on in Oakwood. What secrets are the shadows hiding here? I'm intrigued." [07:03]
10. Rodrik: "Only the oldest and most powerful of Shadows have the ability to invade a man's mind and turn him into a hollow skin." [26:18]

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Looking Ahead

As Daniel and Amber continue their quest, the revelations from Rodrik about the Nostroma and the existence of Holoskins add layers of complexity to their mission. The impending threat of ancient Shadows operating beyond the Kin's reach sets up a high-stakes scenario, promising more intense developments in upcoming episodes.

Stay tuned for Episode 4.4, where Daniel and Amber confront new challenges and seek deeper truths about their lineage and the Shadows lurking in Oakwood.

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This summary captures the essence of Episode 4.3 "Nostrama," highlighting key discussions, character developments, and pivotal moments to provide a comprehensive overview for both listeners and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Amber]

You hear footsteps behind you. You turn and then an ad. Don't let horror be the only thing that surprises you. For just four bucks a month, Fable and Folly plus keeps the scares uninterrupted. Sign [e-mail] before it's too late.

[Rodrik]

If you went on a road trip.

[Stan Travers]

And you didn't stop for a Big.

[Rodrik]

Mac or drop a crispy fry between the car seats, or use your McDonald's bag as a placemat, then that wasn't road trip. It was just a really long drive at participating McDonald's. Close your eyes. Exhale.

[Amber]

Feel your body relax.

[Rodrik]

And let go of whatever you're carrying today.

[Amber]

Well, I'm letting go of the worry that I wouldn't get my new contacts in time for this class. I got them delivered free from 1-800-contacts. Oh, my gosh, they're so fast. And breathe. Oh, sorry. I almost couldn't breathe when I saw the discount they gave me on my first order. Oh, sorry. Namaste. Visit 1-800-contacts.com today to save on your first order. 1-800-contacts.

[Rodrik]

The Road of Shadows Created by Mark R. Healy A Beyond the Dark Production Season 4 Episode 3 Nostrama.

[Daniel]

You have got to be shitting me.

[Amber]

You're trying to tell us that you're the compendium guy? You.

[Rodrik]

That's right. I am. The one who authored it.

[Amber]

The Wicked Devils of Night?

[Rodrik]

Yes. The book that you had with you at the diner early this morning.

[Amber]

Do you mean you added some newer sections or.

[Rodrik]

No, I wrote the original.

[Amber]

Well, mystery caller, that's where your story kind of falls apart. See, this book was written well over a hundred years ago, as far as we can tell.

[Rodrik]

I don't dispute that.

[Daniel]

So how old are you claiming to be exactly?

[Rodrik]

That would take some explaining. And as I keep trying to tell.

[Daniel]

You, you don't have time.

[Rodrik]

That's right. Now, please listen to what I have to say.

[Daniel]

Personally, I don't see why we should listen to a word that comes out of your mouth.

[Amber]

Yeah, if you want us to take you seriously, you're going to have to do better than just reciting a couple of paragraphs from the book.

[Rodrik]

I can give you a couple of minutes, no more than that.

[Daniel]

Let's start with your name.

[Rodrik]

My name is Rodrik.

[Amber]

What about your age? How do you explain that?

[Rodrik]

My body has undergone certain changes over the years that have affected my longevity.

[Amber]

Changes?

[Rodrik]

You mean like, why don't you use what limited time we have to ask something more pertinent? Such as what happened to Jeffrey Lee Jeffrey Lee.

[Amber]

What about him?

[Rodrik]

Come now, you don't have to be coy with me. I already know the two of you confronted him last night in the alley here in town. I know what you did to him. I saw your handiwork with my own two eyes.

[Daniel]

Our handiwork?

[Rodrik]

You tried to use a conduit, didn't you? Some kind of blade. An axe, I would assume, from the size and shape of the wounds.

[Daniel]

What do you know about Jeffrey Lee?

[Rodrik]

Don't be concerned. Your secret is safe with me.

[Amber]

If you're trying to blackmail us, it's not gonna work.

[Rodrik]

I'm not trying to blackmail anybody. In fact, I'm trying to help. That's why I removed the body.

[Amber]

You removed it?

[Rodrik]

Yes. How else do you think it disappeared without a trace?

[Daniel]

What did you do with it?

[Rodrik]

Well, I took it into the mountains and buried it in a place that no one will ever find it. So as far as that incident goes, you can rest easy. Everything has been taken care of.

[Daniel]

But.

[Rodrik]

And don't feel bad about what you did. That thing hiding in Jeffrey's skin, pretending to be a man. It's better off dead.

[Amber]

He was a shadow, wasn't he?

[Rodrik]

Jeffrey? No, no, no, not at all. But he wasn't exactly human either. Not anymore.

[Daniel]

I'm not sure that makes sense.

[Rodrik]

It is clear to me that there are many things you don't know. That's why I urge you to take caution, heed my words, and leave Oakwood.

[Daniel]

No offense, mister, but I don't trust you yet. Not one bit. And I'm sure as hell not going to leave town just because you say.

[Rodrik]

All right. That's fair. Perhaps we can make a compromise then. Promise me that you won't do anything reckless. Stow your axe, cool your heels. Wait for my phone call again tonight. I'll be able to talk longer after nightfall.

[Daniel]

You know where we are. Why don't you just come straight here? We can discuss the whole thing face to face.

[Rodrik]

No, no, no. It's. It's not a good idea for our kind to mingle. There can be. Well, how should I put this? Adverse reactions. I learned that firsthand.

[Amber]

Our kind. What do you mean by that?

[Rodrik]

I have to go. But first, your names. If you'll be so kind.

[Daniel]

Daniel.

[Amber]

Amber.

[Rodrik]

Daniel and Amber. Yes. That's good. Very good. Wait for my call, won't you? Tonight we'll talk.

[Amber]

Well, what the fuck was all that?

[Daniel]

I don't know what to make of it either. I still have no idea if a single thing that guy told us was True.

[Amber]

What if he's actually the shadow and he's just trying to screw with us?

[Daniel]

The thought did cross my mind.

[Amber]

But then why would he remove Jeff's body like that if he wanted to? He could have reported us to the cops easy. Landed us in a whole world of trouble.

[Daniel]

On the face of it, it sure seems like he's on our side. But I'm not ready to trust him just yet.

[Amber]

Hell, no. Not even close. Did you hear the part where he tried to imply that he was. Was in his trauma?

[Daniel]

He said he was like us. Is that what he meant?

[Amber]

I assume so. What else could it be?

[Daniel]

Maybe he just meant that the three of us are alike because we know about the existence of shadows.

[Amber]

I got the impression he was talking about something deeper than that.

[Daniel]

He also said Jeff wasn't human, and.

[Amber]

He wasn't a shadow, either.

[Daniel]

Yeah, so what does that make him?

[Amber]

I guess we won't know until Rodrick decides to call back.

[Daniel]

You intend to wait here by the phone for that to happen?

[Amber]

No, I don't. The last thing I want to do is sit inside a motel room while some mysterious voice on the other end of the phone line drip feeds information to me.

[Daniel]

Do you think we should leave town like he suggested?

[Amber]

I was considering it before, but now, no. Not after we've just started peeling away the layers on this thing. I want to know what's going on in Oakwood. What secrets are the shadows hiding here? I'm intrigued.

[Daniel]

I'm with you all the way.

[Amber]

Oh, good. I was hoping you'd say that. Come on. One thing is for damn sure. We are not gonna find answers waiting around here.

[Daniel]

You've got something in mind?

[Amber]

Mm, Yeah. I know exactly where to start.

[Stan Travers]

Can I help you?

[Amber]

Hey, there. We're looking for the owner of ST Electric. Would that be you, by any chance?

[Stan Travers]

Yep, that's me. Stan Travers. Is there a problem?

[Amber]

No, no, no. No problem. We're just here to ask a few questions, if that's okay.

[Stan Travers]

Well, if you'd like to book an appointment, I'd be happy to help you out with anything you need. Wiring, installation of new outlets. You got a job. We could handle it.

[Amber]

Oh, no, no, no. This isn't a business inquiry. We're here about a more personal matter, I suppose you could say.

[Rodrik]

Oh, shit.

[Stan Travers]

Has Kevin been mouthing off again? I told him he needs to keep his cool with the customers. The guy's a hothead.

[Daniel]

And, well, actually, this is about one of your old employees, Jeffrey Lee.

[Stan Travers]

Jeff. He hasn't worked here in years. Not really my problem anymore. Sorry to say, we don't have a.

[Amber]

Problem with Jeffrey, Mr. Travers. In fact, quite the opposite. We're trying to find him now.

[Stan Travers]

Who the hell are you two? What's this all about?

[Amber]

I'm Amber and this is Daniel. We're actually just passing through town, and this morning we were approached by Jeffrey's sister, Vicky at the diner. She's looking for him. She gave us this flyer and, well, we felt sorry for her. We've had some experience with this kind of thing in the past, and since we had a day spare on our itinerary, we figured we'd do what we could to help.

[Stan Travers]

Couple of good Samaritans, huh?

[Amber]

Just trying to bring some closure to the situation.

[Stan Travers]

Is there a reward or something?

[Daniel]

No. No reward. We're not in it for the money.

[Stan Travers]

Well, either way, it doesn't matter much. Can't really help you. Like I said, I haven't seen Jeff in a while.

[Amber]

We're hoping to piece together a profile so that we can come up with some new leads. Would you mind sharing some information with us? It'll only take a couple of minutes, I promise.

[Stan Travers]

Make it quick, huh? I've got to be at the work site in half an hour.

[Amber]

Great. Let's see. Can you tell us how long Jeff worked for you?

[Stan Travers]

Stan must have been around 18 months, give or take.

[Amber]

Mm. And when did you last see him?

[Stan Travers]

About two years ago. I couldn't give you an exact date.

[Daniel]

What were his personal relationships like? Was he close to anyone here at ST. Electric?

[Stan Travers]

Not really. Guy kept to himself most of the time. Time? In the early days, he'd turn up for beers now and again after work. But toward the end, he barely bothered to even say hello, let alone join in a conversation.

[Amber]

Did something happen to make him more distant, do you think? An incident on the job, maybe?

[Stan Travers]

Not any one thing that I'm aware of. To be honest, I think he just lost interest in. Shoot, well, everything. Stopped taking pride in his work, Stopped talking to the guys, stopped talking to me. Eventually, he couldn't even be bothered to show up on time. Some days he didn't turn up at all. I tried to be patient with him. Could see he was dealing with some shit. I gave him more chances than he deserved. In the end, I had to let him go. That was that.

[Amber]

What kind of shit do you think he was dealing with?

[Stan Travers]

Search me. I got no fucking clue. I was his boss, not his shrink. At the end of the day, the only thing that mattered to me was performance. And Jeff? Well, he Just wasn't cutting the mustard.

[Daniel]

Do you know if he associated with anyone outside of work? Did you ever see him meeting with people socially?

[Stan Travers]

Nope. Kept to himself most of the time, as far as I could tell.

[Amber]

If you had to guess about.

[Stan Travers]

Look, I really have to run. If you want to know more, I'd suggest finding someone else to talk to. I'm sure there are people out there who knew him a lot better than me.

[Amber]

Yeah, okay.

[Stan Travers]

Good luck with your search, but you really should prepare for disappointment. Me? I think Jeff is long gone. I doubt anyone's going to lay eyes on him around here ever again.

[Amber]

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[Rodrik]

So to help us, we brought in.

[Daniel]

A reverse auctioneer, which is apparently a.

[Amber]

Thing Mint Mobile Unlimited Premium wireless.

[Rodrik]

Everybody get 30.

[Amber]

30 better get 30.

[Rodrik]

Better get 20. 20. 20 get 20. 20 get 15.

[Amber]

15.

[Rodrik]

15, 15, 15. Just 15 bucks a month. Sold.

[Stan Travers]

Give it a [e-mail] Switch upfront payment.

[Amber]

Of $45 for a three month plan, equivalent to $15 per month required new customer offer for first three months only. Speed slower after 35 gigabytes of networks busy, taxes and fees extra. See mintmobile.com okay, I'm beat. That was a long day.

[Daniel]

Take a load off. I'll get you a glass of water.

[Amber]

Oh, sounds great. Thanks. Well, that was a lot of walking around and knocking on doors for nothing, wasn't it?

[Daniel]

I wouldn't say nothing. Exactly.

[Amber]

Really? What do you think we got out of that whole thing? Because it seems to me we traipsed around half of Oakwood and Came up empty handed.

[Daniel]

I thought you said you felt a twinge there for a minute over on the north side of town.

[Amber]

That's all it was, a twinge. I felt the presence of a shadow for a. Well, a millisecond, but then it was gone again.

[Daniel]

You said it was faint.

[Amber]

Yeah, enough to know that a shadow is still here in town. But that's all. I have no idea where it's hiding.

[Daniel]

Don't worry. Give it time. It'll come.

[Amber]

Oh, that must be our friend calling back after dark. Just like you promised.

[Daniel]

I'll get it.

[Stan Travers]

Hello.

[Rodrik]

I thought I told you to stay in your room today.

[Daniel]

No. You told us not to do anything reckless.

[Rodrik]

And yet you thought it would be a good idea to wander around Oakwood all day, poking your nose into things that would be best left alone.

[Amber]

Daniel, bring the receiver over here.

[Daniel]

You've been keeping an eye on us, Roderick.

[Rodrik]

Not as such. But nonetheless. I know what you've been up to. It seems you decided to totally disregard my advice.

[Daniel]

Sorry, but we're not going to let a stranger dictate terms to us.

[Rodrik]

Haven't I already proven that I have your best interests at heart?

[Daniel]

Not even close.

[Rodrik]

Disposing of the body, covering up your childish mistakes, isn't that.

[Amber]

Look, mister, we're not going to get very far yelling at each other down a phone line. There's clearly something you want from us, right?

[Rodrik]

What I want is for both of you to stay alive. You're far too important to throw it all away on a whim.

[Amber]

And how do you see this playing out, hmm? What's the thing that's gonna keep us alive?

[Rodrik]

Leave town. As I've told you several times already, how about this?

[Amber]

You give us the information we need about Jeffrey Lee and the other weird shit that's going on here in Oakwood. And if we're convinced by what you say, we'll leave. How about that?

[Rodrik]

This is a waste of valuable time.

[Daniel]

Take it or leave it. That's the best deal you're gonna get?

[Rodrik]

Yes. All right. We'll talk.

[Amber]

Good. Let's start with how you knew we were staying at the motel in the first place. How did you find us?

[Rodrik]

I followed you back from the diner this morning and watched you enter your room. That's it.

[Daniel]

For a guy who claims he doesn't like to be seen in public, you sure get around a lot.

[Rodrik]

I avoid it when I can, but sometimes it's necessary. Like this morning, when I sensed the two of you in town, I knew I had to get closer. I had to see you with my own eyes.

[Amber]

You sensed us. What exactly do you mean by that?

[Rodrik]

There is a link between us. Between all of us. You, me, and the wicked ones. Surely you must have realized that by now.

[Daniel]

Amber and me can both sense shadows, but we can't sense you. At least, I don't think we can.

[Rodrik]

Maybe your ability to perceive other Nostromo isn't quite as well honed as my own. I'm sure it will come in time.

[Amber]

So you are like us. One of the Nostromo That I am.

[Daniel]

Since you claim you know so much about how all this works, why don't you take a few minutes to fill us in? Tell us about the Nostrama. How do we become like this?

[Rodrik]

If that will placate you, I suppose I can do that. And I should preface this by saying that I don't know everything. I don't even know if it's possible to truly plumb the depths of the wicked ones and understand all of their biological traits. But from what I know, the process of becoming one of the Nostromo is a combination of things. Genetics are involved. Certainly, there are circumstances that can arise that will affect whether the victim dies or becomes Nostrama. The amount of toxin ingested, for example. And, of course, luck is a factor.

[Amber]

Luck?

[Rodrik]

I know that seems like an inadequate explanation, but I don't know how else to put it. You see, normally, their venom has an instant effect on the victim. Paralysis, incapacitation. Then, within minutes, blood begins to thicken and congeal. It becomes viscous, almost like jelly. Conversely, bones begin to soften. They lose rigidity and take on a rubbery quality. This allows the wicked ones to consume every part of the body, leaving no trace behind.

[Amber]

Ugh. That's disgusting.

[Rodrik]

Yes. Count yourself lucky that you didn't have to see it in person.

[Daniel]

You've seen this happen?

[Rodrik]

When the wicked ones build underground lairs, dens. And that's typically where they will take a body for consumption. It's a private place where they can sit and gorge upon the victim's flesh. The process can take several days. It just so happens that I was once captured and incapacitated, trapped in. In a den while another unfortunate soul was slowly devoured in front of me.

[Amber]

What? How did you survive that?

[Rodrik]

Well, I can tell you there was an element of good fortune in it. There was a territorial dispute between the wicked ones, you see, and a fight ensued, and I. Well, perhaps this is a story for another time. Back to your original question. The toxins kill almost 100% of the time. However, in very rare cases, the victim survives. When that happens, the toxin can cause mutations in the blood that create fundamental changes in the victim's biological makeup.

[Daniel]

What sort of changes?

[Rodrik]

I'm not the one to ask about specifics. I'm not a scientist. All I know is the mutations create a link to the Wicked Ones. Essentially, we, Nostromo, developed the ability to tap into their world. We become unsanctioned members of the Kin. We can sense them, and we can hurt them and kill them just as they can with each other.

[Daniel]

Shadows kill each other? I never knew that.

[Rodrik]

It's rare, but it does happen. During those territorial disputes I mentioned and the like.

[Amber]

I have to say that you don't talk the way I'd expect from the author of the Compendium. His language is much, much more verbose and flowery than yours.

[Rodrik]

Oh, I'm a very different man now than I was all those years ago. I was little more than a boy back then. And the world has changed greatly. I suppose that I've changed with it.

[Daniel]

How have you managed to stay alive this long? Are you immortal now or something?

[Rodrik]

Not immortal, no. I will die one day. When I became Nostromo, my body incorporated a facet of the Wicked One's longevity. But it has come at a cost.

[Amber]

What cost?

[Rodrik]

The passage of time has manifested itself in some undesirable physical traits that I'm reluctant to discuss.

[Daniel]

Mutations?

[Rodrik]

You could call them that.

[Amber]

Is that why you prefer not to show your face in public?

[Rodrik]

Yes. But enough about me. What about the two of you? What abilities have you developed, Daniel? You obviously have the power to wield a conduit.

[Daniel]

Yeah. My axe.

[Rodrik]

What happens when you strike them down?

[Daniel]

They turn to ash. Pretty much instantly.

[Rodrik]

Ash? Impressive. I've heard that it can be done, but never seen it myself.

[Daniel]

Is that a rare ability or something?

[Rodrik]

Very. And what about you, Amber?

[Amber]

My touch causes them to bleed a lot. If I can maintain contact for even a few seconds, their entire body starts to dissolve.

[Rodrik]

Her skin sharp like the scythe that cuts the wheat. The Wicked Ones fell writhing upon the earth, their lifeblood spilling like rains upon the p Land.

[Amber]

Straight from the Compendium.

[Rodrik]

Yes. Very good. Once again, a rare ability, but very powerful. I'm sure the two of you together make a formidable combination.

[Daniel]

You said earlier that you believe we're important. Why is that?

[Rodrik]

I sense the power in you. Both of you. I believe that together you have the potential to bring the entire kin to its knees. Something that hasn't been done in an age. That's why I Want you to leave Oakwood.

[Daniel]

Why would we leave when there's a shadow still roaming around here?

[Rodrik]

Nostromo like us. Our ultimate goal should be to take down the whole Kin, to crush every shadow in the entire region. Wouldn't you agree?

[Amber]

That's what we're aiming for.

[Rodrik]

Then your time spent in Oakwood is wasted. The evil that lurks in this town is an ancient one. Powerful, but it. It operates in a domain outside of the Kin. It is a law unto itself.

[Amber]

I'm not sure I understand.

[Daniel]

Who is the shadow? Is it Jeffrey Lee?

[Rodrik]

I told you. Jeffrey is dead and buried.

[Daniel]

So who, then?

[Rodrik]

If I told you who it was and where to find them, you'd go after them right now, wouldn't you? This very instant.

[Daniel]

We're not afraid of any shadow.

[Rodrik]

Then I won't do it. I won't tell you.

[Amber]

You know we're gonna find them eventually, don't you? It's just a matter of time.

[Rodrik]

The longer you take to find them, the more opportunity I have to talk you out of this madness.

[Daniel]

Unless we stop taking your calls altogether.

[Amber]

Tell us what you know about Jeffrey Lee, convince us why we can't beat this shadow, and maybe we'll listen to you.

[Rodrik]

Yes, all right. I'll tell you that much, at least. The creature you butchered in the alley last night is what I call a hollow skin. They are incredibly rare. In fact, I've only heard mention of them once before, many years ago, half a world away.

[Daniel]

What the hell is a hollow skin?

[Rodrik]

It's an entity that exists halfway between the human world and the world of the shadows. Once, it was human, a young man like any other. But somewhere along the way, it became corrupted. It fell under the thrall of a shadow.

[Amber]

In what way?

[Rodrik]

The term Hollow Skin is apt. Everything that once made Jeffrey human has been eroded, scooped out, if you will, leaving behind an empty vessel. I assume you're aware that shadows are very good at influencing people, getting inside their heads and manipulating their thoughts.

[Amber]

Yeah, yeah, we've seen that happen multiple times.

[Rodrik]

Well, when a shadow becomes powerful enough, it develops the ability to ravage the mind with such devastation that it essentially destroys everything inside. Willpower is reduced to nothing. Memories crumble. The very identity of the host slips away. All that remains is skin and bones, flesh. There's nothing left but void, a space in which a new entity is able to take up residence. A hollow mold that the shadow can pour itself into. It wears the human skin like a glove, turning it into a macabre puppet, if you will. The Holoskin still walks, talks, and looks like the human it once was. But in reality, there's nothing behind those eyes but a demon.

[Daniel]

So you're saying Jeffrey Lee was somehow possessed by the shadow here in Oakwood?

[Rodrik]

That term isn't entirely apartment but you have the general idea. Keep in mind, however, that if the shadow were to withdraw from the holoskins body, the host would die. The erosion of the subject's mind is irreversible. Jeffrey Lee and any others like him are beyond redemption. There's no trace of humanity left, I'm afraid.

[Amber]

So why should we fear this shadow? Or these holoskins for that matter? We already killed one easily enough.

[Rodrik]

There are more of them, don't you see? Jeffrey Lee wasn't the only one in this town who we.

[Amber]

Rodrick, are you there?

[Rodrik]

There are people headed this way. I'd rather they didn't see me here at the payphone.

[Amber]

Are you in danger?

[Rodrik]

I told you, I don't like to be seen in public.

[Daniel]

Where are you? Why don't we talk in person?

[Rodrik]

As I said, that would be a very bad idea. Listen, there's not much time. You must understand this. Only the oldest and most powerful of Shadows have the ability to invade a man's mind and turn him into a hollow skin. Think of it. To erode one's very will, one's identity of self. It's a sign of immense power. That's why you must not linger here.

[Daniel]

We appreciate your concern.

[Rodrik]

But it will send them for you. Do you understand? And you won't know they're coming. And even if you do survive the hollow skins and the fool enough to confront the shadow directly, it will overpower your mind. So please hear me now. Divert yourself from this path before it's too late. I beg of you. Once you've begun, there will be no turning back. And every step you take will lead you closer and closer. To ruin and damnation from which there is no return. The Road of Shadows is created by Mark R. Healy. Want to hear more stories just like this one? Head over to Patreon to hear other audio productions by Mark R. Healy. There you'll also find lots of bonus content, free stuff and ad free episodes just you can hear a week early. All of that and more is available now at patreon.com BeyondTheDark. You can also hear more at theroadofshadows.com the Road of Shadows Season 4 stars Hamish Plagemars Marta Da Silva Liz Morey Joseph Tweedau Chloe Elmore Larry o' Blander Sian Luxford, Cameron Alexis, Thomas Barker and Alejandro Pedrosa. The Road of Shadows is a Beyond the dark production.

[Amber]

The fable and folly network where fiction producers flourish.

[Rodrik]

Meet Jerry. He may not look like much, but for 36 trillion cells, he's their whole world.

[Amber]

Hello, City of Jerry.

[Rodrik]

Ken Neuron. OSA Dendrite.

[Amber]

I don't need luck.

[Rodrik]

I was born for this flu vaccine. Quentin Quarantino. Well, I might just get a little sick tonight.

[Stan Travers]

Allergy pill.

[Rodrik]

Sergeant Benedict. Drill.

[Stan Travers]

We have to get down to the.

[Rodrik]

Lungs now and muscle cell. Tim Glutus. Hello boys. It's Timmy. Keep Jerry safe. You'll want to be around the new club tonight. The wet dream. It's gonna get nasty. Kisses. Oh Jerry. Jerry. My Jerry. Oh Jerry.

[Amber]

Hello Jerry. Lets get the real party started.

[Rodrik]

City of Jerry. A microscopic action adventure. Every Friday on Dungeons and Drimpus.