The Fallen Cycle Mythos fiction podcast

The Summer Tree, Ayta's Prologue

Season 1: The Summer Tree
Episode 1: Prologue, “The Two Aytas”
On Ayta’s seventh birthday, there came a knock on the door, and her namesake stood before her. Gran Ayta. Once a thing of myth, descended from legends. Now she seemed just a stooped old woman, but appearances can be deceiving.
Ayta’s lonely childhood was soon transformed by Gran’s fantastic stories of flight from one world to the next. From distant Siberia to the Second World of Alterran, from there to the very Land of the Dead she had come, or so she claimed. And she had returned with secrets taken from that underworld, to teach her granddaughter. 
Ayta would need to come to terms with the legacy she had inherited, bearing these myths in a world which has no need for what it sees as childish things. A childish world that she knew was soon to end... 
Behind-the-scenes "deep dive" recording during the 2021 Kickstarter. (Video)
Tales From When I Had A Face, Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
Each episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, and P. Emerson Williams. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. 
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
 

Journey to the Heart of the Sun

Season 1, Episode 2: Journey To The Heart Of The Sun
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
The Summer Tree begins in earnest with Gran's fantastic story of escaping the terror of Siberia in the early 1900s and passing through a gate to another world. The focus of her tale to come will be on her journey through this realm, the characters she meets, and the trials they face as they are drawn into its politics, poetry, and revolution.
Her adventure begins in a dimly lit cell, where she meets Elena, a young girl with a mysterious past. Their uneasy alliance grows with the arrival of Nyssa, a girl who seems to be without a history. The cramped confines of their cell “at the heart of the sun” set the stage for future connections and conflicts.
Tales From When I Had A Face Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, and P. Emerson Williams. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. 
Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
 

Nefalibita

Season 1, Episode 3: Nefalibita
In the third episode of the Summer Tree, young Ayta becomes further enthralled by her grandmother’s tales from the Second World, now focusing on Lilith, one of the twelve Fallen. Gran reveals that Lilith’s destiny instigates profound changes across both Alterran and our world, with the threat of future apocalypse ever on the horizon.
Hints emerge of how Lilith, reborn as a martyr to her own cause, will catalyze cataclysmic events reshaping Alterran’s development. Gran’s story vividly depicts the creation of New Babylon, a sanctuary grown amongst the roots of the desert tree that grew from her very coffin. 
Tales From When I Had A Face Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, and P. Emerson Williams. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. 
Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).

Temple of the Sun

Season 1, Episode 4: The Temple of the Sun
In a harrowing turn of events, Ayta, Elena, and Nyssa are led to the summit of the Temple of the Sun, where they face a trial that will test their resilience and bind them in unexpected ways. They are swept into a ritual that marks them in flesh and spirit, intended to bind them as possessions of the city’s enigmatic deity.
Amidst their ordeal, a mysterious figure emerges, offering a possible escape or deeper entanglement in the temple’s dark confines.
Tales From When I Had A Face Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, and P. Emerson Williams. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. 
Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS. 

The Raven Wanderer Returns

Season 1, Episode 5: The Raven Wanderer Returns
Gran’s story continues. Ayta, Elena, and Nyssa navigate the complexities of the outer city of New Babylon under the guidance of Eluane, the Raven-Wanderer. His mysterious past and true intentions gradually become more clear as he leads them through a chaotic urban landscape to a hidden safehouse.
At the Sendiirian safehouse, Eluane’s revelations hint at a former network of espionage and ties to Elena’s father. The trio must decide whether to trust their newfound guide or forge their own path amidst the outer city’s shadowy alleys. Eluane’s statements about their intertwined destinies suggest they are part of a larger, possibly preordained narrative, deepening the intrigue around their roles in the unfolding events of the Second World.
Elena takes an unexpected trip with even more unexpected results...
Tales From When I Had A Face Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, and P. Emerson Williams. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. 
Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS.

The Prince

Season 1, Episode 6: The Prince
Gran recounts how Ayta, Elena, and Nyssa navigate New Babylon’s marketplace under Eluane's watchful eye. Worried about attracting attention after Elena’s recent misadventures, he leads them to an ornate tent where Prince Samah awaits, a figure of both youthful poise and heavy responsibility. This encounter has the potential to alter their destinies profoundly.
Within the tent, amidst exotic scents and distant music, a conversation unfolds, revealing the political and mystical intricacies of this world. Eluane discloses critical information about Elena’s actions and their potentially catastrophic consequences, raising the stakes. As Ayta and her new friends engage with Prince Samah, they must carefully navigate diplomacy and danger, questioning whether they can trust the prince to aid their escape or if his allegiance to tradition spells their doom.
Tales From When I Had A Face, Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, P. Emerson Williams, and others. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS. 

Of Prophecy and Desert Sand

Season 1, Episode 7: Of Prophecy and Desert Sand
The penultimate episode of the Summer Tree (Season 1) propels Ayta and her companions across a vast desert aboard a windship, floating towards an uncertain destiny. As they traverse the sun-scorched wilderness, the whisper of prophecies and the weight of destiny loom large, setting a tone of both anticipation and dread. Eluane, ever the enigmatic guide, shares his musings about the cosmic and cyclic nature of their world.
Suddenly, they are subjected to a horrific attack, forcing the group to confront immediate physical dangers while still grappling with the symbolic implications of their quest. Then the portents that have been spoken of become all too real... 
Tales From When I Had A Face, Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, P. Emerson Williams, and others. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS. 

The City of Stars

Season 1, Episode 8: The City of Stars
In the final episode of the Summer Tree (Season 1), Ayta and her companions arrive in Ashenti, a city of serene lakes and grand architecture, offering a stark contrast to their perilous journey. Beneath its tranquil surface lies a web of politics and power plays, hinting at the portentous events that await them.
Encounters with Samah and his “abdal” Wallaj reveal a delicate balance of loyalty and duty that defines the city. Meanwhile, mysterious celestial events—a missing star and an ominous comet—loom overhead, suggesting larger, cosmic forces at play. The anticipation builds towards a crucial meeting with the king, as the serene ambiance of Ashenti gives way to an approaching storm and the promise of worse to come.
We will be taking a break before we continue into Season 2: The Fall Tree.
Tales From When I Had A Face, Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, P. Emerson Williams, and others. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season.
Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS. 

Announcements: Season 2 coming soon!

Some important announcements from James Curcio before we contine with our tale... 
We are happy to announce that the Tales From When I Had A Face illustrated novel B&W softcover edition is available on Amazon as of Nov 1. Over 100 illustrations in this dark modern fairytale. Pick up your copy for just $20. 
Modern Mythology podcast and site currently being reworked, stay tuned for a new podcast delving into the ins and outs of system and story, both within RPGs, and applying those same methods to fiction and other narrative creative work. (The archive of current ModernMythology.net articles will remain on Medium after the changeover occurs). 
More discussed within this brief podcast announcement episode. Stay tuned, season 2 of the Fallen Cycle Mythos fiction podcast will begin in about a week!
 

Season 2, Episode 1: The Fall Tree Prologue

We are all just costumes death wears for a season.
Season 2 begins with the next of Ayta’s prologues, describing a haunting scene from her childhood as the cosmic season turns towards Fall. A severe accident leaves her with a life-altering injury, impacting her physically and revealing the dynamics within her family. This incident sets the stage for an exploration of modern sensibilities clashing with ancient beliefs.
This marks the point at which Gran’s tale turns dark: she becomes embroiled in the revolution amidst the prophesied return of the Red Goddesses. Through her story, Gran aims to teach her granddaughter to be an Oyun, or in Ayta’s modern terms, “a witch.”
As Gran’s story unfolds in the second season, themes of fate, destiny, and the cyclical nature of life and death come to the fore, hinting at the dangerous path that lies ahead for the young, would-be Oyun.
Order the Tales From When I Had A Face B&W illustrated edition now for just $20!
Tales From When I Had A Face, Audio Edition Credits
“Tales From When I Had A Face” was written by James Curcio, and edited by Brian Johnson. 
This episode is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack produced by James Curcio, featuring collaborating artists David Bessell, Jenn E, P. Emerson Williams, and others. 
This podcast is Creative Commons 3.0, allowing for Attribution, Share Alike, and Non-commercial use, and features adult themes.
We Are All Just Costumes Death Wears For A Season. Explore More At FallenCycle.Com
A mythpunk universe combining elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, fantasy and near-future noir.
Many Cycles begin in a world much like our own, with characters who know little of the world beyond their waking lives. Gradually, the crack opens between the mundane and the fantastic, the wondrous and the horrific, the past and the future. Perhaps you've been having prophetic dreams that won't stop, or hear the spirits of the trees demanding a blood sacrifice every time you leave your apartment. But those are just dreams... right?
Support Us On Patreon
Enjoy what you hear? Support us for full digital access and Discord benefits for just $5. Upon reaching our first funding goal, we'll introduce a $20 tier with additional perks like annual art prints and pins and new product exclusives (comics, novels, etc).
This podcast is also available on Spotify, YouTube, PodBean, Podchaser, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and of course RSS.