”Vale of the Corbies” by Arthur J. Burks
The HorrorBabble Podcast
Tue, August 15, 2023
Podchat Summary

The Dark Cloud and the Ravens: A Terrifying Dream

Join us in this chilling episode as we delve into the haunting tale of a narrator plagued by recurring dreams of a secluded valley shrouded in darkness. In this mysterious valley, a dark cloud obscures the sun, casting an eerie atmosphere over the landscape.

As the narrator explores this dream world, they begin to hear the faint beating of silken, invisible wings. However, no matter how hard they try, the creatures responsible for these sounds remain elusive, hidden from sight.

Over time, the number of these winged creatures multiplies, forming a menacing wall of black, darting birds known as corbis or ravens. These creatures emanate a palpable hatred towards the narrator, intensifying the sense of dread and danger.

In one particularly harrowing dream, the narrator musters the courage to confront the ravens, engaging in a desperate battle. As the birds attack, their sharp bills pierce the narrator's flesh, leaving behind painful wounds.

Upon awakening from these nightmares, the narrator discovers the presence of red dots on their hands, face, and neck, resembling tiny wounds. The line between dream and reality blurs as the narrator's fear of sleep intensifies, convinced that the ravens will eventually bring about their demise.

The story takes a tragic turn when the narrator's brother, concerned by their increasingly disturbed state, discovers them dead. Covered in blood from numerous wounds, the narrator's demise serves as a chilling conclusion to this haunting tale.

Prepare to be captivated and chilled to the bone as we unravel the enigma of the dark cloud, the invisible wings, and the malevolent ravens in this spine-tingling episode.

Original Show Notes

"Vale of the Corbies" by American author Arthur J. Burks, first appeared in Weird Tales Magazine in November 1925. The story tells of a man and his terrible nightmares, involving an unkindness of ravens.

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