Dead Airwaves Episode 5: Goya’s Masterpiece
As French troops march on Madrid, Goya is consumed by jealousy and a thirst for vengeance. With Valeria as both muse and accomplice, he paints a chilling portrait of death—her knife slicing through Montoya’s throat, his blood sealing their pact. But in the shadows, betrayal looms, and the painting serves not just art, but ambition.
Dark Humor Audio Short Story
Dead Airwaves is a short story podcast with stories of horror, sci-fi, and dark fantasy.
Credits:
- Written and Performed by Jack Ward and John Bell
- Theme Music By Tim Slade
- Production By Mark Slade
- Dead Airwaves Art By Cameron Hampton
A Haunting Tapestry of Desire and Revenge
If you’re looking for a tale that blends passion, betrayal, and the harsh realities of war, this short audio story is certain to captivate you. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of Napoleon’s looming control over Spain, the story draws the listener into a dangerous world where art and vengeance become intertwined.
The story unfolds during a pivotal moment in Spanish history, as French troops lay siege to Madrid. This historically setting provides a fascinating backdrop—one that anchors the drama in a world of political unrest and shifting allegiances. The clash of armies, the trembling city, and the sense of looming chaos all amplify the tension in the plot.
The story manage to balance the macabre with the sensual—lush fabrics, candlelit rooms, and the artist’s intense focus on every intimate detail of his subject. Yet lurking beneath this surface is a creeping menace. This duality of beauty and horror makes for a deeply engrossing listening experience.
Beyond the visceral drama, the narrative resonates with deeper questions about the nature of power and how it corrupts. Goya, once a favored artist, is more consumed by his personal grudges than by politics. Valaria, whose family suffered under wartime conditions, plots a murder that blurs the lines between justice and vengeance.
For those intrigued by gothic tales of art, seduction, and retribution, this audio short story delivers on every front. It marries historical fiction and dark fantasy offering both a thriller’s momentum and a depth that begs for a repeated listen. Allow yourself to be transported to Goya’s studio, where passion mingles with peril, and the flicker of a candle can illuminate both a masterpiece and a murder.
Date Modified: 01-08-2025
