180 years ago amateur scientist Andrew Crosse accidentally created life. Well, he never actually claimed as much, but he was never able to determine where his little creatures came from if not conjured from the aether.

After the death of his parents-his father in 1800, his mother in 1805-Crosse inherited the family’s vast English estate known as Fyne Court. Crosse converted the old manor’s music room into a laboratory, his “electric room,” where he conducted numerous experiments throughout the years. He erected an enormous apparatus to study atmospheric electricity, and was among the first to create large voltaic piles. But it would be a series of seemingly mundane experiments to artificially create minerals that would cement his strange place in the annals of history.

The experiment in which the “insects” first appeared consisted of a mixture of water, silicate of potassa, and hydrochloric acid dripping onto porous Vesuvius rock that was being continuously electrified by two wires connected to a voltaic battery. “The object of subjecting this fluid to a long continued electric action through the intervention of a porous stone was to form if possible crystals of silica,” Crosse wrote, “but this failed.”

The process didn’t yield the results Crosse hoped for, but something completely unexpected happened instead. On the fourteenth day of the experiment Crosse noticed small, white excrescences projecting from around the middle of the electrified stone. On the eighteenth day Crosse noted the growths had enlarged, and now had long “filaments” projecting from them. It soon became clear these were not the artificial minerals Crosse was trying to create, but something which would deny all explanation.

“On the twenty-sixth day,” Crosse observed, “these appearances assumed the form of a perfect insect, standing erect on a few bristles which formed its tail. Till this period I had no notion that these appearances were other than an incipient mineral formation. On the twenty-eighth day these little creatures moved their legs. I must now say that I was not a little astonished. After a few days they detached themselves from the stone, and moved about at pleasure.”

Crosse duplicated his experiment several times using different materials, but still achieved similar results. In some instances, he was amazed to observe the insects growing several inches below the surface of the caustic, electrified fluid but “after emerging from it they were destroyed if thrown back.” In another case, he filled the apparatus with a strong chlorine atmosphere. The insects still formed under those conditions, and remained intact inside the container for over two years, but never once moved or showed signs of vitality.

Vampires and knights are iconic figures deeply rooted in folklore and popular culture, often representing contrasting themes of darkness and light, good and evil, or temptation and righteousness. Here's a brief exploration of both:

Vampires:
Vampires are legendary creatures that have been depicted in various cultures worldwide for centuries. These undead beings are typically portrayed as immortal, bloodthirsty creatures who feed on the life essence (usually blood) of living beings to sustain themselves. Common traits associated with vampires include immortality or longevity, superhuman strength and speed, the ability to transform into bats or other creatures, and vulnerability to sunlight, garlic, crosses, and wooden stakes through the heart. Vampires are often depicted as seductive and alluring figures, using their charm and supernatural abilities to lure victims into their grasp. While some portrayals of vampires depict them as tragic figures struggling with their curse, others portray them as malevolent beings reveling in their dark nature.

Knights:
Knights are medieval warriors who are often romanticized as chivalrous, honorable defenders of the realm. In medieval Europe, knights were typically mounted warriors who swore allegiance to a lord or monarch and pledged to protect their liege and uphold the code of chivalry, a set of moral and social codes governing knightly behavior. The code of chivalry emphasized virtues such as courage, loyalty, humility, and righteousness, and knights were expected to defend the weak, uphold justice, and protect the innocent. Knights are often depicted wearing elaborate suits of armor, wielding swords and lances, and engaging in quests and battles against monsters, villains, and other threats to the kingdom.

The dynamic between vampires and knights often revolves around the theme of light versus darkness, with knights representing the forces of good and righteousness, and vampires representing the forces of darkness and temptation. This dichotomy has been explored in various forms of literature, film, and other media, often leading to compelling narratives exploring themes of morality, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil.

Emma Harper a Glimpse into Immortality

In the realm of human imagination, the concept of immortality has long been a captivating and elusive idea. To be immortal is to exist beyond the boundaries of time, untouched by the inevitable march of aging and the finality of mortality. The prospect of eternal life raises both enchanting dreams and chilling fears.

Imagine a world where the relentless ticking of the clock holds no power over you. Each passing moment is not a step towards an inevitable end but rather an endless journey through the tapestry of existence. In this timeless existence, one could accumulate knowledge, skills, and experiences without the fear of diminishing time.

However, the pursuit of immortality would not be without its challenges. The joy of witnessing generations unfold before your eyes could be overshadowed by the weight of loneliness. As mortal friends and loved ones come and go, an immortal being might find themselves navigating a lonely path, detached from the ephemerality of human connections.

The ebb and flow of emotions might undergo a profound transformation. With an eternity ahead, the highs of joy and the lows of sorrow could take on new dimensions, intensified by the endless canvas of time. The passing of centuries may dull the sharp edges of feelings, or perhaps, it could refine and deepen them into a profound understanding of the human experience.

Yet, the question of purpose might loom large in an immortal existence. With endless time, the pursuit of goals and aspirations could lose its urgency. Would an immortal being find solace in constant exploration and self-discovery, or would the absence of a finite endpoint lead to a sense of purposelessness?

The notion of immortality raises ethical dilemmas as well. How would an immortal coexist with mortals, whose lives are fleeting in comparison? Would the immortal become a silent observer, detached from the struggles and triumphs of the human experience? Or, in their enduring wisdom, would they become stewards of humanity, guiding and nurturing civilisations through the eons?

In the end, the concept of immortality remains a captivating enigma. While it may promise an escape from the inevitability of death, it also introduces a host of challenges and uncertainties. Perhaps the beauty of life lies in its transience, the fleeting moments that give it depth and meaning. Immortality, if achieved, would undoubtedly reshape the very fabric of existence, but whether for better or worse, that remains a question lost in the echoes of eternity.

The Count of St. Germain, a mysterious and enigmatic figure of the 18th century, was a European aristocrat, adventurer, and purported alchemist. Born in the late 17th century, his life and activities are shrouded in mystery and surrounded by conflicting accounts.

Known for his captivating personality, the Count of St. Germain was a polymath who claimed proficiency in various arts, including music, languages, and alchemy. He moved through the courts of Europe, interacting with nobility and royalty. His ability to speak multiple languages fluently and his alleged alchemical pursuits contributed to the air of intrigue surrounding him.

The Count of St. Germain was often described as an ageless and immortal figure, adding to the myths and legends that surrounded his persona. Despite his extensive social connections and interactions with notable historical figures, much of his life remains speculative, with historical records providing only fragmentary glimpses into his activities.

St. Germain's legacy endures as a symbol of mystery and intrigue, with his life and exploits inspiring numerous works of fiction, including literature and film. The elusive nature of the Count of St. Germain has transformed him into a legendary figure whose true identity and nature continue to be the subject of speculation and fascination.

The Wandering Jew is a legendary and mythical figure in Western folklore and literature, often depicted as a person who is cursed to roam the Earth for eternity. The origin of the legend can be traced back to medieval Christian folklore, and variations of the story have appeared in different cultures over time.

The Wandering Jew is typically associated with a man who, in some versions of the tale, encounters Jesus Christ during the events of the Crucifixion. The man either mocks or rejects Jesus, and as a result, he is cursed to wander the Earth until the Second Coming. The curse may include immortality, perpetual wandering, and witnessing the passing of ages without being able to find peace.

This legend has been the subject of various literary works, including poems, novels, and plays. The character has been depicted in different ways, sometimes as a figure burdened by the weight of his curse, and other times as a more malevolent or sinister presence.

Over the centuries, the Wandering Jew has become a symbolic figure, representing themes of punishment, redemption, and the consequences of rejecting divine mercy. The legend has also been adapted and reinterpreted in various cultural contexts, illustrating its enduring impact on Western storytelling and mythology.

The existence of vampires is a topic that has captivated human imagination for centuries, often fueled by folklore, mythology, and popular culture. However, in the realm of reality, there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of supernatural creatures like traditional vampires.

Vampires, as commonly portrayed in folklore and fiction, are typically depicted as undead beings who sustain themselves by consuming the life essence, often in the form of blood, of the living. These depictions have roots in various cultural myths and legends from around the world.

While many cultures have myths about creatures with vampiric characteristics, such as the chupacabra or the nosferatu, these are generally considered to be elements of folklore rather than evidence of real supernatural entities. In reality, the idea of creatures that feed on blood or life force is not supported by scientific understanding.

It's essential to recognize that belief in vampires is primarily a cultural and fictional phenomenon, and any claims of encounters with real vampires are anecdotal and lack empirical evidence. Vampires continue to thrive in the realms of literature, film, and folklore, contributing to a rich tapestry of imaginative storytelling and myth-making.

Bran Mak Morn, a central figure in Robert E. Howard's short story "The Worms of the Earth," is the last king of the Picts, a fierce and ancient people in Howard's historical fantasy setting known as the Pictish Wilderness. Bran Mak Morn is portrayed as a stoic and determined leader facing the impending threat of the Roman Empire.

In "The Worms of the Earth," Bran Mak Morn becomes entwined in a desperate struggle to defend his people from Roman encroachment. Faced with the overwhelming might of the Roman military, he turns to dark and ancient forces, the "Worms of the Earth," for assistance. This decision forms the core of the narrative, exploring themes of revenge, survival, and the consequences of seeking aid from supernatural entities.

Bran Mak Morn's character is characterized by a strong sense of duty to his people and a willingness to make difficult choices in the face of dire circumstances. Howard's portrayal of Bran Mak Morn reflects the author's exploration of historical settings combined with elements of dark fantasy, contributing to the enduring legacy of this iconic character in the realm of speculative fiction.

Robert E. Howard (1906–1936) was an American author best known for his contributions to the pulp fiction genre, particularly his creation of iconic characters like Conan the Barbarian and Bran Mak Morn. A master storyteller, Howard's works often blended historical settings with elements of fantasy and horror, creating gripping tales that left a lasting impact on the world of speculative fiction.

One of Howard's notable works is the short story "The Worms of the Earth," a compelling narrative set in his Pictish Wilderness milieu. In this tale, readers are introduced to Bran Mak Morn, the last king of the Picts, as he confronts the encroaching threat of the Roman Empire. Faced with overwhelming odds, Bran Mak Morn turns to ancient and malevolent entities known as the "Worms of the Earth" in a desperate bid for survival.

"The Worms of the Earth" is a captivating exploration of revenge, the clash between civilizations, and the consequences of dabbling in the supernatural to achieve one's goals. With Howard's signature style of atmospheric storytelling, vivid descriptions, and a keen sense of the macabre, this short story stands as a testament to his enduring legacy in the realm of speculative fiction.

Certainly! "The Worms of the Earth" is a significant short story by Robert E. Howard that features another of his iconic characters, Bran Mak Morn. Unlike Conan, who hailed from the Hyborian Age, Bran Mak Morn is associated with Howard's historical fantasy setting called "The Pictish Wilderness."

In this tale, Bran Mak Morn, the last king of the Picts, is faced with a dire threat in the form of the Roman Empire. In a desperate attempt to defend his people, Bran seeks the assistance of ancient and malevolent entities known as the "Worms of the Earth." These creatures are deeply rooted in the supernatural and possess a profound connection with the earth itself.

Bran Mak Morn's alliance with the Worms of the Earth is both a desperate pact and a manifestation of Howard's exploration of the clash between civilizations, cultures, and mystical forces. The story delves into themes of revenge, survival, and the cost of resorting to dark powers to achieve one's goals.

As with many of Howard's works, "The Worms of the Earth" is characterized by its atmospheric storytelling, vivid descriptions, and a sense of impending doom. The narrative explores the limits of humanity's struggle against overwhelming odds and the consequences of delving into the occult to gain an edge in conflicts.

Overall, "The Worms of the Earth" is a compelling and dark tale that showcases Howard's talent for weaving together historical elements, supernatural elements, and heroic fantasy. It remains a classic within the genre and contributes to the enduring legacy of Bran Mak Morn as one of Howard's memorable characters.