Thlen

In today’s episode, we’re peeking into the caves of Northern India to visit U Thlen, an evil spirt that exists in the form of a giant, man-eating snake. Under normal circumstances, I think it’s safe to say that most people would do their darnedest to avoid the lair of a known demon snake, but— unfortunately— that wasn’t an option for certain residents of Meghalaya. You see, the local market took place in a village only accessible by a sacred bridge that crossed right by the entrance to U Thlen’s cave. Anyone wishing to buy or sell goods at market would have to journey past. And sure enough, the snake would be waiting. This week’s episode features an original story by Niall Cooper called “The Oath of U Thlen.” Find a transcript of this episode here.