supernatural
The hidden world of all things supernatural; a look inside witchcraft, spells, vexes, black magic and other spine-tingling supernatural phenomena.
The Mystery of Blackwood: Chapter 3. Content Warning.
Jack clutched the worn map of the asylum, the paper crackling under his fingers as he spread it across the dust-covered reception desk. The air was thick with anticipation, each breath a visible puff in the chill that had settled over the abandoned hall. His team, clad in dark jackets bristling with pockets for gear, clustered around him like moths to a dim flame.
By Mara Edwards2 years ago in Horror
The Mystery of Blackwood: Chapter 2
The musty air grew denser as the team delved deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of the old asylum, their footsteps a soft patter against the silence that seemed almost palpable. Shadows clung to the corners where the dim light of their flashlights failed to reach, and every so often, a draft would snake its way through the gaps in the boarded-up windows, carrying with it the stale scent of abandonment.
By Mara Edwards2 years ago in Horror
The Mystery of Blackwood: Chapter 1. Content Warning.
The heavy door groaned on its hinges as Jack Thorne stepped into the shadowy embrace of Blackwood Asylum. The silence of abandonment was palpable, broken only by the crisp tread of his team's footsteps that reverberated off the decaying walls. Flickers from their flashlights danced across peeling paint and discarded furniture, casting eerie shapes in the gloom.
By Mara Edwards2 years ago in Horror
The Bump. Runner-up in L*pogram Challenge.
Dot woke up to a bump dead on the center of her forehead, above her nose, where her eyebrows detached. She saw the bump when she brushed her teeth; mouth full of the sudsy menthol foam. She spat a wad of gooey paste onto the edge of the enamel bowl and rubbed her thumb on the lump. The bump was small, hard, and ached from the pressure of her touch. When she removed her hand, the bump was an angry red oval.
By Amos Glade2 years ago in Horror
The Whispers of St. Augustine's School. AI-Generated.
St. Augustine's School, nestled on the outskirts of a quaint village, had always been a place of mystery. Built in the early 1900s, the school had a history that was as rich as it was eerie. Locals often spoke in hushed tones about the strange occurrences within its ivy-clad walls. The school had closed down abruptly in the 1970s after a series of unexplained events that left the community in fear.
By LAKSHMAN MOHANRAJ2 years ago in Horror
Haunted Heights: The Ghostly Tales of Baiyoke Sky Hotel
The Baiyoke Sky Hotel, an architectural marvel soaring above the Bangkok skyline, is a symbol of modernity and luxury in Thailand. Standing at an impressive height of 304 meters, it is the second tallest building in Thailand, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the bustling city below. However, beneath its gleaming faรงade lies a darker, more mysterious reputation. The Baiyoke Sky Hotel is not only known for its height and luxury but also for the eerie tales and ghostly encounters reported by guests and staff alike.
By Kyrol Mojikal2 years ago in Horror
Longlegs Movie Review. Top Story - July 2024.
Arthouse horror has been making waves in recent years with smaller studios like A24 pushing to give directors full control over their projects. The has resulted in many unique releases that tap into audience fears. The latest effort, Longlegs, comes from Osgood Perkins. Those who dive in will find an atmospheric and often distressing production.
By Robert Cain2 years ago in Horror
"Beyond the Veil: Exploring the Mystery of What Happens When We Die". AI-Generated.
**What Happens When You Die?** Death is a universal experience, yet it remains one of humanity's greatest mysteries. Across cultures, religions, and scientific disciplines, various theories and beliefs attempt to explain what happens when we die. This article explores the perspectives of science, religion, and philosophy to provide a comprehensive understanding of this profound topic. ### The Biological Perspective From a biological standpoint, death is the cessation of all vital functions. When the heart stops beating and breathing ceases, oxygen no longer reaches the body's cells, leading to cellular death. The brain, which relies heavily on a constant supply of oxygen, is one of the first organs to shut down. Within minutes of cardiac arrest, brain cells begin to die, leading to the irreversible end of consciousness and bodily functions. 1. **Immediate Post-Mortem Changes:** After death, several immediate changes occur in the body. Livor mortis, or the pooling of blood in the lowest parts of the body, causes a purplish discoloration of the skin. Rigor mortis, the stiffening of muscles, sets in within hours as the body's energy stores deplete and biochemical reactions cease. Algor mortis, the cooling of the body, occurs as it equilibrates with the surrounding temperature. 2. **Decomposition:** Decomposition follows, a process driven by the breakdown of tissues by bacteria and enzymes. This process progresses through several stages, including autolysis (self-digestion by cellular enzymes), putrefaction (bacterial breakdown producing gases and odors), and ultimately skeletonization. The rate of decomposition varies based on environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of insects. ### The Scientific Exploration of Near-Death Experiences Near-death experiences (NDEs) have intrigued scientists and laypeople alike. Individuals who have been close to death often report vivid experiences, including seeing bright lights, feeling a sense of peace, encountering deceased loved ones, or having an out-of-body experience. While some interpret these as glimpses of an afterlife, scientific research seeks to understand these phenomena through physiological and psychological lenses. 1. **Physiological Explanations:** Some scientists suggest that NDEs result from a dying brain's response to severe stress or lack of oxygen. The release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters might create a sense of euphoria and visual hallucinations. Another theory posits that NDEs are related to temporal lobe activity, which can trigger vivid memories and sensations. 2. **Psychological Explanations:** Psychologically, NDEs might be the brain's way of coping with the trauma of impending death. The mind, in a state of crisis, could generate comforting visions or sensations as a defense mechanism. Studies have shown that cultural and individual beliefs significantly shape NDE narratives, suggesting that personal and societal expectations influence these experiences. ### Religious and Spiritual Perspectives Religions worldwide offer varied and rich interpretations of what happens after death. These beliefs provide comfort, guidance, and ethical frameworks for their adherents. 1. **Christianity:** Christianity teaches that after death, individuals face judgment and their eternal fate in Heaven or Hell, based on their faith and actions. Catholics believe in Purgatory, a temporary state of purification for souls not yet ready for Heaven. The resurrection of the body at the end of times is a central tenet, where believers will be reunited with glorified bodies. 2. **Islam:** Islam holds that after death, individuals enter an intermediate state known as Barzakh, awaiting the Day of Judgment. Souls are rewarded or punished based on their deeds. The righteous are granted entry into Paradise (Jannah), while the sinful face the consequences in Hell (Jahannam). The Quran emphasizes the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal significance of the afterlife. 3. **Hinduism:** Hinduism believes in reincarnation, where the soul (Atman) is reborn in a new body based on karma, the cumulative result of one's actions in previous lives. The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) continues until the soul achieves moksha, liberation from the cycle, and unites with the divine (Brahman). The quality of soul .
By Mbeha maliwa 2 years ago in Horror
๐ฏ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฑ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐. Content Warning.
Introduction I saw a story by RJ Stockton and saw that he had changed the font in the title of his piece and I was wondering how he had done it. He told me and I have an idea for a forthcoming challenge so I thought I would combine the two in a story of my own. Then I thought of the song and album by Atomic Rooster called "Death Walks Behaind You" which had a creepy painting by William Blake as the cover. The end of the story came to mind, so the challenge can wait til August.
By Mike Singleton ๐ Mikeydred 2 years ago in Horror
The Silent Suburb. Content Warning.
"Never been here before," Jeff thought to himself as he followed the delivery truck. The town was pretty far outside his home city. He had almost thought the delivery truck was going back to the warehouse when he'd seen it not too far from here on the highway, but that was in the opposite direction.
By Matthew Spinelli2 years ago in Horror
True Horror Story: Mom, That Wasn't Me They Buried
This story is a true account that I heard from a coworker who hails from the Bandung Regency. For the sake of everyone involved, Iโve altered the names and locations. Iโve added some improvisations to help readers follow the narrative. Happy reading. One day around 4 p.m., Mrs. Saodah, a woman of about 35 years, was preparing dinner in her kitchen. While she was busy cooking, her son, Asep, who was in the fourth grade, asked for permission to play with his friends. After school, Asep usually played soccer or other games with the neighborhood kids in an empty field at the edge of the village. Asep's village was not a large one, just a small rural settlement with a few traditional stilt houses and semi-woven bamboo houses. At that time, gadgets were not available, so children were used to playing outside. As dusk approached, Asep usually came home, bathed, and went to the village mosque to study the Quran. But that day, the evening call to prayer had already sounded, the sky was dimming, and Asep had not yet returned. After finishing her evening prayer, Mrs. Saodah decided to fetch Asep from the field, which was about a five-minute walk from her house. Sometimes, the children played until after dusk and only returned home after being scolded by their parents. It was understandable as they often lost track of time while having fun. When Mrs. Saodah arrived at the field, she found it deserted. She wondered where Asep had gone. Worried, she hurried to the mosque. As Mrs. Saodah approached the mosque, she heard the sound of sholawat (Islamic hymns). She looked for Asep among the children studying the Quran, but he was not there. Noticing her presence, Mr. Sofyan, the village preacher, approached and asked, "Who are you looking for, ma'am?" "Has Asep come to the mosque?" Mrs. Saodah asked, her voice trembling. "No, ma'am, Asep hasn't been here," Mr. Sofyan replied. Mr. Sofyan then asked his students about Asep, but none of them had seen him after school. Mrs. Saodah began to panic, and Mr. Sofyan tried to calm her down before accompanying her to the village chief's house. The children at the mosque were left in the care of Ridwan, one of the older students. Mrs. Saodah lived alone with Asep, her only child. Her husband had died a few years ago. Upon arriving at the village chief's house, they were invited in and explained what had happened. The village chief recounted that Asep had come to his house to ask for permission to pick some mangoes from his yard. In the village chiefโs yard, there was a large mango tree that always bore ripe fruit. According to the chief, Asep had come with two other children around 4:30 p.m. The village chief had never seen the two children who accompanied Asep before, so he assumed they might have been from a neighboring village or perhaps relatives of Asep. However, something was odd about the two children: their skin appeared unusually pale, and they had faint dark circles around their eyes. After granting the children permission to pick the mangoes, the chief went back inside, leaving the children to climb the tree. That was the last time he saw Asep. Mrs. Saodah turned pale and was visibly shocked. She felt a cold chill run down her spine, making her hair stand on end. She asked the chief for help in searching for her missing child. The village chief immediately informed several villagers to help search for Asep. The men began to gather in front of the security post near the chiefโs house. They brought flashlights and drums from the mosque and security post, then spread out, calling Asep's name as they searched the village and surrounding bushes, beating the drums as they went. The village chief ordered Mrs. Saodah to wait at home with his wife. As the night grew later, Mrs. Saodah became more frantic. Her hands felt cold, and she occasionally wiped away her flowing tears. She did not stop praying to the Almighty for her child's safe return. Around 1 a.m., the village chief and the villagers returned home after an unsuccessful search. Mrs. Saodah, who was crying uncontrollably, was comforted by the chief's wife. The search would resume in the morning. Mrs. Saodah went home feeling resigned. That night, she could not sleep at all, her mind only filled with thoughts of Asep. Morning came, and a few people helped the chief search for Asep again, but fewer villagers joined this time as the others had to go to work. One of the villagers suggested to the chief that they seek the help of Mbah Anom, a wise elder from a neighboring village, to assist in the search. The chief and another villager then went to Mbah Anom's house. At the elderโs house, they found him sitting on a bamboo chair on the porch, sipping black coffee from an old, mottled tin cup. They were invited in, and the chief began recounting the incident of Asepโs disappearance. Mbah Anom closed his eyes, occasionally furrowing his brow. He then said that Asep was in a dark, confined, and damp place, and asked if there was an old, unused well in the village. The chief confirmed that there was indeed an unused well located to the north of the village near some bushes. With this information, the chief quickly rode his motorcycle back to inform the villagers to search the well. The villagers were shocked to find Asep curled up at the bottom of the well. They descended to retrieve his body. His body was pale and very cold, with no signs of life. When Mrs. Saodah learned of this, she rushed through the crowd and stood frozen, staring at her lifeless child. She broke down in hysterical tears, clutching Asep. The villagers looked on with pity. That afternoon, the villagers helped Mrs. Saodah prepare Asep's body for burial. The funeral proceeded smoothly, followed by a tahlilan (prayer gathering) that night. After the villagers left, only Mrs. Saodah and a few relatives who stayed over remained in the house. Mrs. Saodah was deeply affected by her loss, frequently fainting and crying out her son's name. As the night grew later, Mrs. Saodah tried to come to terms with her sonโs passing, though it was difficult. Exhausted from the previous sleepless night, she eventually fell into a deep sleep. In her dream, she was visited by Asep, who approached her wearing the same shirt and pants he had worn last. Asep said, "Mom..." "I'm scared..." his voice trembling with fear. In her dream, Mrs. Saodah could not speak. She could only watch Asep without being able to embrace him in his fear. "Mom, I'm here." "That wasn't me they buried, Mom..." "Help me..." he continued. Mrs. Saodah woke up suddenly, drenched in sweat. Her heart pounded. She cried again. She repeated prayers, recalling the dream she just had. She glanced at the clock on her bedroom wall, which showed that it was already dawn. She took a moment to calm herself and then went to perform ablutions. In the morning, Mrs. Saodah recounted her dream. Her relatives advised her to be patient. She thought maybe she was just too heartbroken, which was why she dreamed of her son. On the second and third nights, she had the same dream. Her son repeatedly visited her in her dream with a terrified expression, saying, "Mom, that wasn't me they buried..." Feeling that her dreams were an omen, Mrs. Saodah told the village chief and asked for his help in exhuming her son's grave. Instead of agreeing to dig up the grave, the chief tried to convince Mrs. Saodah that the recurring dreams were just a result of her inability to let go of her son's passing. On the fourth, fifth, and sixth nights, Mrs. Saodah continued to have the same dream and pressed the chief to help her, who continued to refuse and insisted it was just a dream. On the seventh day, Mrs. Saodah felt she could no longer bear seeing her son terrified in her dreams. The same dream for seven nights had nearly driven her mad. Relentlessly, she asked for the village chief's help once more. Finally, the chief gave in and agreed to help exhume her son's grave. Truthfully, aside from pity and not wanting to see Mrs. Saodah's grief worsen, the chief was also curious about what they would find if the grave was dug up. That afternoon, Mrs. Saodah, two relatives, the chief and his wife, and two grave diggers went to Asep's grave. The grave was still fresh, with dried flowers scattered on top. With Mrs. Saodah's permission, the two diggers began their work. Mrs. Saodah tried to remain as strong as possible, holding back her tears. She couldnโt believe they were exhuming her sonโs grave. A few minutes into digging, Asep's shroud began to show, so the diggers slowed their pace to avoid damaging it. Once the digging was complete, the diggers were puzzled by the shape of the shroud. But without commenting, they continued, with the help of the chief and two of Mrs. Saodah's relatives, to lift the body out. They placed the body next to the open grave. Mrs. Saodah stifled her sobs with both hands covering his mouth.
By Horror story2 years ago in Horror
