Supernatural & Paranormal

Vampire Videos

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:57:08 +0000

I thought it would be fun to post vampire videos. You are welcome to post videos about real vampires. We can discuss, too. That would be exciting.

Just as an aside, I'm doing my best to locate people whom are featured here. I think that's fair.

Vampires Among us - Father Evan Christpher, a fangsmith, and local vamps in Tampa Bay, Florida.

http://www.vampire-fangs.com/

http://www.tampabay.com/components/video/?bcpid=1886158340&bctid=33804663001

Father Evan isn't bad on the eyes, ladies:

Folklore/Mythology- not common knowledge?

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 07:33:42 +0000

I really enjoy folklore and mythology and supernatural creatures. They're endlessly fascinating. So I read and learn as much as I can.

But not everyone gets my references. But I just assume that everyone knows about this stuff, I guess. Sorta like, how everyone has a pretty general idea of what Santa Clause is, you know?

I have conversations and I reference things like harpies or changelings, and people are just like, "What in the world?" Recently I referenced the "brownies" (helpful spirits) and the person I was talking to had absolutely no idea what they were.

It's probably always been like that, but I've only really noticed recently that all this isn't exactly common knowledge. I really love you, Darkness, because you (a lot of you) know about all this stuff. A lot of you know more about it than I do!

So...werewolves, is it?

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:07:57 +0000

What's with this? There are currently ten "I am/know/want to be a werewolf!" threads on the first page alone.

Ten years ago we saw the same, everyne wanted to be a vampire or at least wanted others to believe they were. They wore fake fangs and black coats and hid from daylight. And they often added ryptic "sumerian" messages in their signatures. Wich was nice and all.

Now they're all wolfkin of some sort. Is it Twilight? I guess Jacob has more sex appeal than Edward, at least more muscle tone. (and before you arrest me for being familiar with the twilight universe, I have a daughter who's almost 12. I know it all.)

So what's the deal? And anyone willing to wager a guess on what the next fad will be in ten years? I'm betting on fairies, if the True Blood show manages to create a big enough hype around Sookie.

Vampires and Sunshine

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:28:07 +0000

Vampires of older lore were impervious to harm by sunlight. Even in Bram Stoker's Dracula the sunlight did not kill the vampires. It's only more recently that we associate vampires with night creatures who burn up or turn to dust in sunlight. The vampire has changed a lot. It's interesting to see what has shaped it into what we know it as today.

I found this older topic on the subject of vampires and sunshine but figured it was worth making a new one to discuss. Although there were some awesome posts in that topic, so check it out.

What are your thoughts?

A new type of werewolf, research questions

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:01:16 +0000

What is it that you like about werewolves? If you were writing a story about a werewolf, how would you improve on the idea? I have a few ideas and would like to know what the forums members think of them. I will use this thread to explain a few things and to ask your opinion. Feel free to comment on anything I or others post or to simply give your opinion on how to answer the following questions.

This thread is an attempt to explore the fictional version of the werewolf myth. These questions pertain to the physically, shape shifting werewolf. I am also assuming that this creature is a werewolf regardless of it’s physical form.

Should werewolves be multiple stage/phase or double stage/phase creatures?
If a werewolf is the being itself and he/she has two or more forms, what are the names of those forms?
What weakness should a werewolf have and should they apply to all “Phases” of the shift?
What strengths should a werewolf have?
When should a werewolf transform?
At what point does the human psyche loose out to the animal, or does it?

My Answers. Feel free to agree or disagree and to discuss them.

1. A werewolf should be a multiple phase creature with different forms that it phases through. This creature should be able to control how much it transforms from one to the other. A double stage creature would only have the two forms, human and wolf, their transformation would be like in the movie Blood and Chocolate. They would go directly from the human to a wolf form. A multiple stage creature would have a “middle” phase where it would be similar to what we see in movies as a werewolf. This middle phase would have both human and wolf characteristics.

2. The first phase would be the form the creature was born as, depending on whether its parents were human or wolf. The middle phase should be called a Wolver. The transformation process would go something like this.

The human, 100% human

The Wolver, characteristics of both human and wolf ( a Hollywood style werewolf)

The Wolf, at this stage the creature is 100% wolf.

3. I still like the idea of werewolves having a weakness to silver. I think a werewolf’s sight should be based on movement and not on color, they should be colorblind.

4. Other than the above human strength, I think a werewolf should have a heightened sense of smell and hearing. I would think that a werewolf would be extremely fast and agile.

5. I like the idea of a werewolf being able to transform anytime he/she wants and to any extent that he/she chooses. If the werewolf chooses to only transform to the point that their claws are extended, they should be able to do so. I would not want them to be transformed only during the full moon.

6. I think that the human should be diluted as the creature transforms. The more wolf the creature is, the less human.

Basically, I am attempting to revitalize this mythical creature. I am attempting to gather information on how to make the werewolf into a more expectable, modern creature. I would love to hear your ideas on how we could make a “cooler” werewolf.

Thanks for reading and for your answers/ comments.

Vampire Spiritualism

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 05:16:36 +0000

Firstly, let me say that I am not betraying anyone or any order. Information can be found if you are willing to do your research. Many of the deeper secrets will remain hidden unless one is intiated into one of the secret orders. That is not likely to happen. But that doesn't mean what is available won't enrich your life. If you are a student of vampirism and the occult, there is much to learn.

Let it be said that spiritual vampires are not in harmony with the beliefs of the OVC (Online Vampire Community). Spiritual vampires are on a different path altogether.

Vampire spiritualism is a complex topic. A simple description is that spiritual vampires are on a path to Godhead, which is eternal life, and that they store the prana (the energy) they absorb in that effort. This is known as "predatory spirituality."

I cannot say if all spiritual vampires are on a path to Godhead. I am guessing there is something coded in one's DNA though that is going to cause them to seek this path.

Also, there are vampires who practice "predatory spirituality" and do not belong to any order or believe in any God(s). They are certainly spiritual beings - beyond what you can imagine. That is saying more than enough.

There are three more commonly known spiritual vampire orders: The Aset-Ka (AK), the Temple of the Vampire (ToV), and the Order of the Vampyre. Be aware that the ToV, while having nonhumans as members, has some hefty monetary requirements including expensive cryogenics.

Did you catch that? What did I just say? Nonhuman? Did I say that? Yes, I did. I am speaking of a vampire soul that inhabits the physical body. This is not to be confused with people who have personality disorders. Once again, spiritual vampires are strong beings possessing discipline and often on a metaphysical path.

Now, a lot of people on this path are not going to claim they are vampires. The truth is a riddle you will eventually figure out if you study: they are very much a vampire but they are not a vampire.

If you begin researching, do not be fooled by some of the Kheperu-based vampire Houses. Knowledge is good but it is possible to waste time as well. It might be better to search for occult techniques. To each his or her own. Learning is the initiatory process.

I have talked with Etu_Malku about this topic and he said he was game to discuss it. Etu has extensive knowledge on the topic and I'm sure he will be more than happy to bleed all over what I wrote. That's a good thing because I don't know what the heck I'm talking about...yet.

Warning: As the above General Thread statement implies, this is a thread to explore the subject, not to denigrate the subject matter or the posters. If you do so, you will be reported. Show respect and there will be no problems.

And don't be afraid to ask questions. Neither myself nor Etu will bite you.

NEED A Real elder wolf

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 20:20:48 +0000

I need to find an elder to spesk 2 pm if any elders can help me

Vampires Today: The Truth About Modern Vampirism

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 18:20:55 +0000

You all may remember the vampire survey circulating a few years ago. Merticus of the Atlanta Vampire Alliance and others were gathering data on vampires in America as well as abroad. Merticus had posted a request for vampires to fill out the survey here at Darkness as well.

The book, Vampires Today: The Truth About Modern Vampirism by Joseph Laycock is a summary of the data collected in the above vampire survey.

I received my copy recently and would be interested in discussing it with likeminded people. If you don't have a copy, I wouldn't mind discussing if you are still interested.

Some of the lesser known aspects of vampirism are discussed such as vampire spirituality.

Just let me know in this topic and I will give a general overview and then we can delve into specifics.

Jamais Vu

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 06:35:44 +0000

Has anyone else had this experience?

Jamais vu

Quote

Often described as the opposite of déjà vu, jamais vu involves a sense of eeriness and the observer's impression of seeing the situation for the first time, despite rationally knowing that he or she has been in the situation before.

Although apparently more commonly explained when a person has a momentary memory lapse of a familiar word, place, or person. But I'm more interested in the above definition. An eerie sense of seeing the world around you for the first time, even though it's a familiar place, a place you live or work, friends you know and see all the time.

Who granted you magickal abilities?

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 02:46:40 +0000

If you have psychic abilities, where do you think they came from? God? Goddess?

I believe that some of us are born with magickal abilities. I also believe it is up to us to further develop our abilities.

I don't believe magickal abilities come from Satan, God or a Goddess.

Where do you believe these gifts originate?

Half breeds time to step up and annouce ourselves

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:05:20 +0000

Come and join me all those that are half breeds. I will except all. I am raven and I am a half breed. My half breed type is wolf, vampire, and witch. i a wait for all of u to come forth

any wolves in upstate ny

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:08:29 +0000

i been hopen that mayb thered b some of our kind near me

For those who are wolves please step up

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 07:13:06 +0000

let me just say this i only want the real werewolves to step up the fake ones step down i am one myself my name is Kyle

Wolves, its time to step out of the crowd

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 21:54:19 +0000

Now let me start of by saying i don't want any RPing here
My name is Zach and i joined this site looking for other wolves, and i found a few here.
My awakening was at the age of 19, I never met others before so its time to speak up and let ur self be known

Resurrection of the 'A conversation with all vampires...' thre

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:42:32 +0000

Many MANY moons ago, I started a topic here seeking out conversation with any who called themselves vampire. Largely looking for self professed classical vampires to come and talk in whichever form they felt appropriate. In light of Kelly's thread speaking of one called Vartusa who walked these halls a time, I thought perhaps it time to resurrect the thread, or at least the concept, again.

So, once more into the breach old friends. Originally I was here under the name of Vicereine, most of you here still know me as such, and my quest remains the same. To seek knowledge, to speak freely and to discuss the theology, psychology and philosophy of vampiric nature and tendancies.

I'd like this thread to remain eloquent and respectful. Challenging ideas and concepts for intellectual debate and discourse, as we must, but not resorting to flaming and trolling.

Let one thread be a place of elegance for a time?

Over to you...........

Sleep Paralysis

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:17:35 +0000

Okay, it's been years & years since I've laid down my studies with the paranormal . Occassionally, I'll get this terrible 'pressure' all over my body that literally wakes me up from my sleep & is so dreadful & scary I'm scared to fall back asleep. I've done some studying & it appears what I have is called Sleep Paralysis (Wikipedia Article). It suggests that I begin sleeping in a different position (not sleeping on my back) and avoid food before bed. I'm sincerely hoping this works; but I'm honestly contemplating going to see a Preacher or Therapist if it continues. I contacted a local holistic healer via e-mail just recently- just to cover all the basis.
I had this terrible dream, like there was 'something' trying to 'get' me- and then I was in a church, opening the doors and letting air into it and people began pouring into the doors to enter. Then I was at a bowl of water & in the dream I was praying. There was a concrete slab in the shape of a heart with the word "Angel" on it- but it was broken. Then it mended itself. Then I woke up with this horrible pressure on my chest and the feeling of something being in the room with me that meant me harm. It's friggin' ridiculous- I lied there praying not understanding what could be causing it but the terror lasted for at least an hour until I decided to get up & move around.

There are a lot of myths about sleep paralysis; the general idea I've gotten from most cultural myths is that it's a dead, evil spirit that more or less 'sits' on your chest at night (i.e. attacks). I can't pull much out of the studies that has been done but some preventative measures, and that perhaps in brought on by stress or underlying psychological issues (childhood trauma, post traumatic stress, etc).

Often, in the incidence of sleep paralysis the victim wakes up & continues to have a lucid dream with the feeling of some malevolent spirit that is 'watching'. Absolutely the circumstance for me in every case of this I can remember. This sounds insane probably, but I'm getting tired of dealing with it and I'd like some rational answers.

I'm going to close by asking everyone to be sensitive with their responses; this is something very real for me and I'm not proud of having to discuss it. I'd like to know if anyone else suffers from this and/or if anyone can help me make sense of why it happens.

Astral projection and Dissociation

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:12:07 +0000

Dissociation is like "zoning out" and is normal even in everyday life. Like when you drive somewhere, but you can't remember the actual details of the drive to that place. Or just zoning out when you're reading something that isn't interesting. Etc.

But dissociation in traumatic situations can lead the brain to react in a way that makes the person feel that they have "left their body," and can look down on the world from somewhere else. (Depersonalization).

It sounds very similar to OBE (out-of-body experience), like astral projection.

That's what I would think, if I ever dissociated or depersonalized or whatever during something scary. I've read the psychological/neurological information about it. So scientific. But I wouldn't think of it that way, I'd rather believe that I was an astral projection. I would think, I’m an astral body. This is my soul. And whatever bad thing is happening, that’s happening to the body, the worthless vessel. Let them have the body.

I've never had an out-of-body experience, though.

how to feel again

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 07:35:49 +0000

for approximately a year, i have not cryed at all. i can show happiness and anger, but just those. i need help.

Shadow People of Zombie Road

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 21:50:02 +0000

Leaving the western suburbs of St. Louis, Missouri, you find yourself in a dense wilderness that whispers of satanic slayings, occult practices, vanishing towns, and shadow people.

You might think twice about travelling Zombie Road. A river dubbed "The River of Death" by locals runs along Zombie Road. It is upon the river bank where dark translucent figures stand guard amongst the trees. Shadow people.

Many have drowned in The River of Death. The river lures unsuspecting children in and drowns them in deep holes. It is thought that the drowned children are the shadow people.

Just what are shadow people? No one knows. But their presence is well-known along Zombie Road.

Here is a darn creepy pic of them (you can click to enlarge):

You can google Zombie Road and see some more pics. Feel free to post them in this thread.

Here is a link:
http://www.hauntedamericatours.com/ghosthunting/ZombieRoad/index.php

Witchy Things

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:33:08 +0000

Maybe you have heard of some of these but weren't sure what they were:

Witch Pegs: In rural areas of the Ozarks, these charms are made to keep witches away. They are three pronged, cedar pegs, driven into the ground in the path to the door. The beliefi s that the prongs are associated with the Holy Trinity. It is bad luck to step on or disturb a witch peg.

Witchs' Butter: In old Swedish lore, this was the yellow vomit of witchs' cats found in gardens. (Oh yummy) In past times, it was thought that the Devil gave witches cats called carriers. The witches sent the cats out into the neighborhood to steal food. The cats would often gorge themselves on the stolen food which they then vomited in the yards of neighbors.
Witchs' butter also refers to a genus of the lowest group of freshwater algae, Nostoc, also called star spittle. After a summer rain, Nostoc will swell suddenly into a gelatinous mass that appears to have fallen from the sky.

Witchs' Cradle: A form of torure for witches. A witch was tied up in sack, the sack was strung over a tree limb and set swinging. The rocking motion of the "cradle" caused extreme disorientation and helped to induce confession. Most subjected to it also had hallucinations.
The term witchs' cradle also applies to a modern sensory deprivation device and techniques used to induce altered states of consciousness.

Witchs' Hat: The stereotypical image of a witch is of an old, ugly hag wearing a tall, conical hat with a broad rim.
In medieval woodcuts, witches were shown wearing many kinds of costumes of the time, including headscarves and hats of different kinds. Many were shown bareheaded.
It is possible that the hat is an exaggeration of the tall, conical "dunce hat" that was popular in royal courts of the 15th century or the tall, blunt hats worn by Puritans and the Welsh.
Brimless, conical hats have been associated with wizards and magicians. Maybe an artist added a brim to make the hats more appropriate for women.
Another possibility comes from Ancient Etruscan coins from the city of Luna show the Goddess Diana, wearing a brimless, conical hat.
I have been told that the hat represents the Cone of Power that Witches will raise in rites. The point "draws" down power while the brim keeps it from escaping.

Witchs' Ladder: A string of 40 beads or a cord with 40 knots, used in magic. The beads or knots enable a Witch to concentrate on repetitive chants or incantations without having to keep count, much like a Rosary.
In lore, a witchs' ladder was a rope or cord of 9 knots. It was thought that witches could cast a death spell over a person by tying the knots and then hiding the cord.