Dead of Night - No 05 - 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: Dead Of Night Magazine
Issue: 5
Date: April/May 1995
Publisher: Quinta-Essensia
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.50

This issue of Dead Of Night Magazine, a publication dedicated to exploring all paranormal phenomena, features a "Mysterious Lake Monsters Special" with a focus on "The Beasts Of Bala And Gwaenysgor" and "The Story Of the Loch Ness Monster - Part One". The magazine also delves into "African Witchcraft", examining Ghanaian religious practices and folklore, and explores "The Turin Shroud". Regular features include "Chasing the Unknown", a collection of recent weird news stories, and "Keep Watching the Skies!!!", detailing the latest UFO sightings. The editorial highlights the magazine's mission to introduce a wide audience to the paranormal.

Special Features

African Witchcraft

Authored by Roy Kerridge, this section explores the coexistence of ancestor worship and Christianity in Ghana. It discusses the concept of "traditional religion" as practiced by African pagans, who sometimes refer to themselves as "Godians". The article recounts a news story from "The Mirror" about a Christian woman who became a priestess after a divine summons to an underwater kingdom. It also details the disappearance of Afua Tabisi, a traditional priestess, who allegedly went to a "dwarf land" for supernatural powers, leaving behind a mysterious white egg. The piece touches upon the possible historical presence of Pygmies in West African forests and the "Dipo" initiation ceremony for adolescent girls among the Krobo people, which involves training and an ordeal of female circumcision, with some candidates being buried as human sacrifices according to tradition.

Living a Boy's Adventure Tale: The Story Of the Loch Ness Monster - Part One

This article begins a series on the Loch Ness Monster, focusing on "Shadows and imaginings, Folkloric traditions and pre-1933 reports". It sets the stage for an exploration of the legend and its origins.

The Turin Shroud - Part One

This segment presents "The earliest stories surrounding the existence of the Shroud", initiating a discussion on this controversial artifact.

Is there a Monster in Lake Bala?

This article, "On the Track of the Beast of Bala", investigates potential lake monster sightings in Bala, Wales.

The Beast of Gwaenysgor

Dave Williams investigates a mysterious Welsh Beast in this feature.

Regular Features

Editorial

Lee Walker takes a break from the editorial duties, allowing "P.W." to write a piece reflecting on the magazine's purpose. The author emphasizes that the magazine was created to introduce as many people as possible to the paranormal, regardless of age. A letter from a 14-year-old subscriber who saved money for the magazine is highlighted as an example of the passion the publication inspires. The editorial concludes by expressing hope that the magazine contributes to fostering a generation that asks questions about the unknown.

Chasing the Unknown

This section compiles "The latest Press Clippings of Anomalous Phenomena", presenting a collection of unusual news stories from various newspapers. It includes reports on a tragic mother who killed her children believing she was protecting them from the devil, a father who killed his son and mother due to a prophecy of the world ending, and a Madonna statue that allegedly cried blood, leading to a fraud probe. Other stories cover a supposed miracle in Naples involving San Gennaro's blood, a claimed sighting of a rainbow by moonlight, minor earth tremors in Britain, and the collapse of a house in Staffordshire.

Keep Watching the Skies!!!

This feature presents "The Latest UFO Sightings from Britain and around the World", offering brief accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena.

A Carnival of Monsters

This is the "Fourth Part of our ABC of all kinds of weird and wonderful Creatures from the World of Cinema, Legend and Demonology", continuing a series on mythical and fictional beings.

Dark Visions

This section provides "A Review of all the latest Television Programmes featuring the weird, wonderful and downright strange."

Magazine Reviews

This column offers "The latest from the world of Fortean Phenomena magazines."

Other Content

UFO Section

A call is made for readers to share their UFO encounter experiences, with contact details provided for "THE ELLESMERE PORT U.F.O STUDY GROUP". The section also welcomes new members interested in the study of UFOs and abductions.

"What the Papers Say" (Page 4-6)

This section, written by Roy Kerridge, continues to analyze African press reports on magic and witchcraft. It elaborates on the "Dipo" custom in Ghana, detailing its historical context, the controversy surrounding its current practice (including initiation of very young children), and differing opinions from religious leaders and community members. Kerridge also shares personal anecdotes from his pen-friend in Ghana, including experiences with beliefs about twins and a custom of "hooting at hunger" to ward off famine spirits. The section concludes with a critique of Nigerian newspaper reports on magical events and advice from an "agony aunt", contrasting them with the perceived rationality of English astrology columns.

"Chasing the Unknown" (Page 7-8)

This ongoing section presents a series of short, often sensationalized, news items from various newspapers. Topics include a mother's alleged occult-induced murder of her children, a father's astrological-driven killings, a weeping Madonna incident in Italy, a miracle in Naples, a strange moonlight rainbow, minor earthquakes in Britain, a house collapse in Staffordshire, and a power surge in Cornwall. It also includes a segment on "More 'Cult' News From Paranoid America", discussing the rhetoric of American militia groups and their fears of a New World Order, citing publications like "SPOTLIGHT" and "TAKING AIM".

"First Ozone Hole Found Over the Arctic" (Page 9)

This scientific report details the detection of a significant "hole" in the ozone layer over the Arctic and northern Europe for the first time. It explains how man-made chlorofluorocarbon compounds (CFCs) contribute to ozone destruction, especially within the polar vortex during spring. While the current risk to northern Europeans is considered low, the report emphasizes the importance of international agreements limiting CFC production, highlighting that without such measures, the situation could have been as severe as in the Antarctic.

"Days of Strange Fortune: 1 & 2" (Page 9-10)

These segments present a collection of unusual and often unfortunate events. "The good luck charm of Glen Nevis" recounts the legend of a stone that supposedly grants wishes and how its relocation was followed by a period of disaster, with its return hoped to bring good fortune. "When Your Luck's Out" details a series of bizarre accidents, including a sneeze causing a multi-car pile-up, a woman tripping and dying on her wedding day, a man suffocating in wallpaper, and a killer being struck by lightning. Other stories include a haunted take-away, a haunted house fundraiser, and ghost sightings at a television studio.

"A Couple of Ghostly Tales" (Page 10)

This section includes brief accounts of alleged hauntings, such as a chippy being blessed due to moving tables and creaking floors, and a haunted house used for a charity event. It also mentions a reputed ghost of a woman in 17th-century clothing at a building society office and alleged hauntings at the set of the soap opera "Coronation Street".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, the unexplained, folklore, witchcraft, and alleged supernatural occurrences. It presents a wide range of stories, from cryptozoology and UFO sightings to religious phenomena and ghostly encounters, often drawing from newspaper clippings and personal accounts. The editorial stance, as articulated in the editorial section, is to be open to all paranormal phenomena and to encourage curiosity and questioning among readers, without adhering to any single belief system. The publication aims to be accessible to a broad audience, fostering an interest in the mysteries of the world.

This issue of 'Scottish Sunday Post' from April 1995, with a supplementary mention from 'Daily Slur' dated May 10, 1995, delves into a variety of intriguing and often bizarre stories, ranging from ancient curses to peculiar animal behavior and scientific breakthroughs.

The Curse of South Uist

The cover story, "Did an ancient curse claim this man's life?", investigates the legendary curse of the Clanranald gravestone on the Hebridean island of South Uist. For generations, islanders have believed that desecrating the clan's ancient gravestone would result in an early death. The article posits that this curse may have struck Lawren Maben, a young Canadian who, five years prior, took the 400-year-old, three-hundredweight stone from the island to his home in London as a souvenir. Maben died in his sleep at the age of 33, with a coroner's officer noting a 'foam-like substance' from his mouth. An inquest was to be held. Neil MacMillan, chairman of the South Uist Historical Society, recounted local legends of kilted ghosts and spirits with broadswords searching for the stone. Maben's father, David, stated his son did not believe he had done anything wrong. Cathy Haith, curator of medieval antiquities at the British Museum, identified the stone by its coat of arms, recognizing it as a potentially listed monument illegally removed. Ranald Macdonald, the 21st Chief of Clanranald, expressed delight at the stone's recovery and had offered a £500 reward. He spoke of the curse dating back to the Middle Ages, stating no one benefits from stealing such an item. The Clanranalds have been buried at Howmore, South Uist, since 1490. Rob Parker from the Clandonald Centre in Skye testified to the curse's power.

Red Frog's Croak of Gold

This short piece highlights a zoo's surprise at receiving a rare red frog from an old lady. Zoo bosses speculate that the frog's unusual coloring might be due to holes in the ozone layer. The frog is unlikely to survive in the wild due to its lack of camouflage. The same old lady had previously donated a completely white frog with pink eyes.

Weird Human Behaviour

This section presents a series of short, often disturbing, anecdotes:

• A judge dismissed sexual assault charges against a bus driver after the 'victim' admitted having ten personalities, only two of whom were witnesses.
• Tom Hogarth was described as desperate to play the role of a knight in shining armor, pulling over seven women motorists to point out non-existent faults on their vehicles.
• Takeo Niyama, a golfing fanatic, beat his partner to death with a club after giggling at a sliced stroke.
• Clinton Bruce Kirkbride, allegedly 'The Bendigo Tickler' for breaking into homes to tickle children's toes, was arrested.
• A woman from Thailand stabbed her husband to death, believing he was using black magic to kill their baby daughter.
• Warren E. Smith is suing a palm reader for £2 million because her lottery predictions were incorrect.
• Francisco Duran, who fired a gun at the White House, claimed he was trying to dispel 'The Mist From Outer Space' and was guarding humanity.
• Michael Marcum, an inventor, stole six transformers to power a time machine, but ended up serving jail time.
• A man suffering from psoriasis demanded money from restaurants, threatening to shake skin flakes onto their food.
• Barry Albin, a funeral director, offers 'deep-freezing' services for clients until science can revive them.
• A man paid for his grandmother's body to be freeze-dried and kept in his living room.
• Stephen Vernon punished his forgetful girlfriend by putting piranha fish in his waterbed.
• Andre Schmidt is accused of starting fires to keep a fireman busy while he wooed his wife.
• A man claiming healing powers was jailed and given 25 lashes for sorcery in Sudan.

Strange Tales from the Animal Kingdom; 2

This section focuses on unusual animal occurrences:

• Don't Feed the Birds, They're Taking Over: In Cossington Street recreation ground, Leicester, flocks of overfed birds, including starlings, seagulls, crows, ravens, pigeons, and sparrows, have become a nuisance due to excessive feeding by the local Hindu population, who consider it a religious practice.
• Heartbreak Kills a Swan: A swan died of a broken heart after its mate was shot. Their three cygnets are being cared for by the RSPCA.
• Court Proceedings Interrupted by 'Jeezly Ol' Crow': A crow repeatedly tapped on the windows of Guildford Crown Court, disrupting trials.
• Flying Pigs Cause a Hitch: A cargo of 72 flatulent pigs on a South African Airways flight triggered fire alarms due to their body heat and gas, forcing an emergency landing. Fifteen pigs died.
• The Incredible Farting Ants: Ants are identified as a major source of methane gas, contributing significantly to the world's methane supply.
• Hot Shot Cow: A cow accidentally stepped on the trigger of a rifle left in a field, firing a bullet into another cow.
• Mystery Disease Kills 14 Horses: A strange, unidentified virus struck down horses and a trainer in Australia.
• Billy Goat Not-So-Gruff: Men flocked to a village to buy milk from a Billy Goat that grew a breast, believed to be a cure for impotence, but the farmer had to slaughter it after death threats.
• Last Rites for a Monkey: A monkey, a favorite at the Taj Mahal, was given Hindu last rites and cremated after being electrocuted.
• Chocolate Labrador Dives for a Yorkie: Tarka the Labrador saved her drowning friend, Poppy the Yorkshire terrier, from a fast-flowing river.
• A Robbing Dog: A six-year-old boy was robbed of ten dollars by a dog that bit his leg and snatched the money.

Six Little Pales of the Unexpected

• Albino Hedgehogs: Six albino hedgehogs were born with black eyes, which is unusual as typical albino hedgehogs have red eyes. The concern is whether to release them into the wild where their lack of camouflage would make them vulnerable.
• Lair of the Rat King: John Bellamy bred hundreds of giant mutant rats, some as big as cats, in his bungalow in Ditton Fields, Cambridge. Health officers discovered the infestation after complaints from neighbors. It took three days to kill off the vermin, and the conditions in the house were described as a severe health risk.

Are the Gates Opening to a Real-Life Jurassic Park?

This article reports on the thrilling discovery of DNA fragments in a 70 million-year-old dinosaur egg found in China. Professor Zhou Zhenquan of Beijing University stated that this discovery marks a major step forward for mankind and could add fact to the fiction of 'Jurassic Park'. While the creation of a baby dinosaur remains a fantasy requiring extensive research, this find provides evidence for the science fiction concept. The article also mentions a separate Chinese and German team studying fossilized dinosaur eggs in southern China, who may have found a clue to the disappearance of Jurassic-era giants related to diet imbalance and diseased eggshells.

Living A Boy's Adventure Tale: The Story Of The Loch Ness Monster Part One

The issue begins a multi-part series on the Loch Ness Monster. The first installment details the author's journey with friends Richie, Grant, and Stevie Gee to Loch Ness in August 1992. The narrative focuses on the author's profound sense of awe and mystery upon first seeing the loch, describing it as a place of 'eternally brooding mystery' and 'real-life Faerie Tales'. The author reflects on the journey taking 'twenty years' in a metaphorical sense, representing a lifelong fascination. The section also touches upon the historical context, mentioning the viewing of an 'Unsolved Mysteries' program in 1974 and the borrowing of books on the subject. It references the earliest recorded sighting of a 'Water Monster' by St. Columba in 565 AD near the River Ness or Urquhart Bay, and the subsequent folklore surrounding creatures like the Kelpie and Water Horse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features a blend of the unexplained, the bizarre, and the unusual. There's a clear interest in folklore, curses, and supernatural phenomena, as evidenced by the lead story on the South Uist curse and the ongoing series on the Loch Ness Monster. The 'Weird Human Behaviour' and 'Strange Tales from the Animal Kingdom' sections highlight a fascination with the strange and often disturbing occurrences in everyday life, presented in a sensationalist yet factual manner. The inclusion of scientific discoveries, such as the dinosaur DNA, suggests an attempt to balance the more speculative content with current research, though often framed within a context of mystery and wonder. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a willingness to explore the fringes of accepted reality, presenting these stories as intriguing possibilities rather than definitive truths.

Title: DEAD OF NIGHT
Issue: 24
Date: 28th May 1995

This issue of DEAD OF NIGHT, dated May 28, 1995, focuses on two primary themes: the mysterious legends of lake monsters and the historical and scientific controversies surrounding the Turin Shroud.

Lake Monster Traditions

The magazine begins by exploring the folklore surrounding 'Kelpie' or 'Beiste' creatures, described as having a nasty penchant for frightening young children. These beings were believed to possess magical powers and could be malevolent. Tales of 'Nessie'-like creatures have emerged from many lochs, with sightings of Kelpies often regarded as omens of impending disaster, leading to a general reluctance to even name them.

Michel Meurger, in his book 'LAKE MONSTER TRADITIONS', is cited for drawing a distinction between the Kelpie (frequenting rivers and streams) and the Water Horse/Bull (haunting the sea and lochs). The Kelpie is said to have cousins in other regions, including the Noggle in the Shetland Isles, the Cabyll-uisge on the Isle of Man, and the Ceffyl-dwr in the rivers of Wales.

These creatures are described as looking similar to small horses and possessing the ability to change into the form of handsome young men, or a wild, hairy man. They are also said to emit a horrible, blood-curdling cry. Katherine Briggs, author of 'THE VANISHING PEOPLE', notes that a Kelpie's chief delight is to lure unwary humans onto its back in horse form and then plunge into deep water to devour them. Loch Ness is regarded as a retreat for such creatures.

Significantly, the bodies of Kelpies were said to be unsubstantial, able to become nothing more than a soft, sticky mass. A quote from George Russell (AE) suggests these creatures were placed by 'subtle enchanters to watch over the Gates Of Wisdom'.

The article then delves into historical accounts of strange phenomena in Loch Ness. Following an encounter by St. Columba, the next mention comes from Patrick Rose of Rosehall, concerning a 'Monster' seen in the Loch during the year Sir Ewan Cameron of Lochiel fought Wild-Cats. This sighting was repeated in 1771, convincing people it was 'The Kelpie'.

More reliable reports begin in 1802 with Alexander MacDonald, a crofter from Abriachan, who witnessed unusual phenomena on the loch. On one occasion, he saw a 'Monster' break the surface and swim towards him, estimating its length at about 20ft and noting its short appendages for propulsion.

Around the same time, Roderick Matheson sighted what he described as 'the biggest Eel I ever saw in my life', with a neck like a horse and a mane. Commander Rupert T. Gould's book on the Loch Ness Monster includes an account from Mr D. Mackenzie, who in 1871 or 1872, saw what he initially thought was an upturned boat moving with great speed on the loch.

The dramatic story of diver Duncan MacDonald is recounted, who, while examining a sunken ship, spotted a large, odd-looking 'beastie' like a huge frog. In the late 1870s, a young girl and her brothers from Inverness described seeing an enormous, extraordinary animal, bigger than an elephant, enter the lake.

Further sightings include a creature with four legs spotted in 1880, and an account from 'H.F.W.' in 'THE SCOTSMAN' about local children being warned away from Cherry Island due to something mysterious in the loch.

During WWI, Margaret Cameron and friends heard a 'crackling' noise and saw a large, elephant-grey animal with a horse-like head and thick legs emerge from the woods, moving like a caterpillar. In 1926, Simon Cameron of Invergarry witnessed two seagulls react to something like a large upturned boat rising from the depths of the loch.

John Macleod of Invermoriston reported seeing a large creature, 35-40ft long with an eel-like head and tapering tail, lying motionless on the surface. In 1919, a 12-year-old boy named Jock Forbes witnessed a creature cross the road and enter the water.

Alfred Cruickshank sighted a khaki-coloured creature with four thick, webbed legs and a tail, described as barking like a dog. The final pre-1933 sighting detailed is from July 22, 1930, when three anglers heard a great noise and saw a large commotion on the water, with a disturbance advancing towards their boat.

The article concludes this section by stating that the combination of tradition and contemporary sighting reports forms a basis for the existence of large, unidentified creatures in Loch Ness, promising further exploration in the next issue regarding when Loch Ness hit the headlines in 1933.

The Turin Shroud

This section, authored by Steve Griffiths, shifts focus to the Turin Shroud. Griffiths expresses his intent to write about the shroud, drawing parallels between recent attempts to discredit the surgeon's photograph of it and the results of carbon-14 dating. He argues that publicity can sway public opinion, even if the subject has inaccuracies. He points out that the carbon dating, while claimed to be 95% accurate, did not sufficiently account for events like the 1532 fire, which could have affected the results.

The article aims to present the shroud from multiple viewpoints, having gathered information over years. It is presented in two parts: the first covers the cloth's documented history from the 14th century and its earlier whereabouts, while the second will focus on the scientific views of 'sindonologists'. The author stresses his impartial stance, merely recording researchers' findings.

The Origin of the Shroud - Part One

Biblical accounts from Matthew 27:59-60 describe Joseph of Arimethea wrapping Jesus' body in a clean linen cloth and placing it in a tomb. Mary Magdalene later found the tomb empty, with only the linen cloth remaining, which was said to have a faint image upon it. This cloth is now known as the Turin Shroud.

A photograph shows the shroud in negative form, with white areas on the arms, chest, and forehead appearing bloodstained, and burnt areas from the 1532 fire visible.

The shroud's authenticity has been a subject of controversy, with some viewing it as a divine image and scientists using carbon-14 dating to dismiss it as a medieval fake. It is kept in Turin Cathedral, displayed in a silver casket, and only brought down on special occasions.

The cloth measures 14.25 ft long and 3.58 ft wide. The image depicts a man approximately 5'10.5" tall, weighing about 178 lbs, with hands crossed over the pelvic region. Markings suggest the man was whipped, with marks similar to those made by a Flagrum. There are also wounds to the side of the chest, consistent with being pierced by a spear, and wounds to the head, wrists, and feet, akin to those from nails and a crown of thorns.

The shroud's known history begins in a church in Lirey, France, believed to have travelled from Constantinople via the Knights Templar. Its first owner was Geoffrey De Chaney in 1350, and it later passed to Duke Ludovico of Savoy.

A fire in 1532 in Chambery nearly destroyed the relic, but it was saved by two laymen and Franciscan priests. Although saved, the cloth suffered damage from molten silver, with 48 folds on three edges burned. Nuns at the Monastery of St. Clair repaired the cloth with triangular patches.

Apart from the 1532 fire damage, there appear to be four sets of round burn holes dating before 1532, evidenced in a 1516 painting and a 1192 Hungarian manuscript. These are suggested to be poker holes from a medieval trial by fire to test authenticity.

In 1578, the shroud was transferred to Turin. It was placed in Turin Cathedral in 1694. In 1983, ex-King Umberto II bequeathed the shroud to the Vatican, leading to further investigations by professional sindonologists.

The article notes that Biblical accounts do not mention the burial cloth leaving an image, suggesting a miracle. Experiments have been conducted to see if body oils and perspiration could have darkened the cloth over time. The shroud also makes appearances in historical records from the 4th century, with mentions by Nicephorus Callistus and references to a linen cloth called Sudgrium in Constantinople.

The Mandylion

This section questions whether the Mandylion of the Eastern Orthodox Church could be the same as the Turin Shroud. The Mandylion is described as having travelled from Edessa (now Urfa) and bearing the image of Christ's face, used as a protective palladium during a siege. Legend states it was found within brickwork with a burning lamp.

The Mandylion was described as Acheiropietos, meaning 'not made by human hands'. Early texts tell of King Abgar V of Edessa being cured by the imaged cloth. The Mandylion was considered a sacred relic, carried into battle by leaders like Ivan the Terrible and Russian troops in WWI.

A medieval manuscript illustration shows the exposition of the Veronica veil, which many believe to be the head area of the Turin Shroud.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores subjects that blur the lines between folklore, history, and the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting historical accounts, legends, and scientific debates without definitively endorsing one viewpoint over another. The focus on lake monsters and the Turin Shroud highlights a fascination with enduring mysteries and the human desire to understand the unknown, whether it be ancient legends or religious artifacts.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated March 1995, delves into a variety of topics within the realm of UFOs and unexplained phenomena. It features articles on the historical Shroud of Turin, a dramatic UFO crash recovery in South Africa, the growing trend of alien abduction stories in the media, and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

The Shroud of Turin: Legends and Early Research

The magazine begins by exploring the historical and legendary accounts surrounding the Shroud of Turin. It discusses the Edessa legend, where Jesus is said to have sent a towel with his imprinted image to cure a king, and the story of Veronica, who wiped Jesus's face on her veil. A key theory presented is that the Mandylion, a relic known only for its facial image, might be the Turin Shroud folded in four, thus explaining its appearance and survival throughout history. The article notes that the shroud shows signs of having been folded in this manner, with the head area being darker.

It then moves to the "EARLY RESEARCH IN THE 1900'S," highlighting the significance of the first photographs of the Shroud taken by Secondo Pia in 1898. Pia, an amateur photographer and lawyer, was commissioned by King Umberto I. Despite the King's initial concerns about damaging the relic with lighting, he was persuaded by Baron Manno, who saw potential tourism benefits. Pia's photographs, taken with great difficulty and exposure times, revealed details not visible to the naked eye. The article details Pia's meticulous process and his claim of never retouching his negatives.

The research continued with Paul Joseph Vignon, a biologist and scientist, who was intrigued by Pia's photographs. Vignon studied the images, calling them "the magic key," and explored the possibility of the shroud being a 14th-century forgery. He concluded that a painter from that era would not have understood negative images without knowledge of photography. Vignon also experimented with aromatic substances like aloes and myrrh, which were used in Jewish burial rites, to see if they could naturally produce an image on linen, proving that a natural image was possible but not definitively identifying it as Christ's.

A significant breakthrough came in 1932 when Pierre Barbet, a surgeon, analyzed photographs and focused on the wounds on the wrists. He demonstrated that crucifixion by the palms would be unsustainable, proposing the 'space of destot' in the wrists as the likely point of nailing. Barbet also explained the mystery of the missing thumbs, suggesting they would have been drawn inwards during the nailing process.

The issue also touches upon the medical reconstruction of Jesus's piercing, based on biblical accounts and a dead body, which resulted in the flow of watery substance and blood, consistent with St. John's Gospel. Furthermore, the article mentions Cyr Ulysse Chevalier, a French priest who claimed the Shroud was a medieval painting, tracing its history to 1389 and citing a document from Bishop Peter d'Arcis that described the shroud as a cunningly painted forgery attested to by the artist. Chevalier's book "Critical source studies" further convinced many that the shroud was a fake.

'PROJECT BLACK HORSE': UFO CRASH RECOVERY

This section details an alleged UFO crash recovery incident in South Africa in 1989. Defected Captain James Van Grunen recounts the event, which involved two Mirage jet fighters, NORAD, and GCHQ. A UFO was detected on radar at high speed, and military aircraft were scrambled. The object was hit by a laser cannon, causing it to waver before plummeting into the Kalahari Desert. A recovery team found a cavity with a spherical object, surrounded by fused sand and rock. The area was secured, and the craft was transported to a secret base. The investigation team could not identify the wreckage as terrestrial. Reports suggest two grey-skinned humanoid entities were found inside, described as having oversized heads, dark blue markings, large almond-shaped eyes, and three-digit hands. The incident allegedly led to two Airforce helicopters crashing due to radiation exposure.

UFO SIGHTINGS AND INVESTIGATIONS

The magazine includes several reports of UFO sightings and related activities. One section discusses the "Roswell Incident," noting its persistent controversy and the upcoming release of a film purporting to show actual footage of the alleged crash. Another article highlights the formation of new UFO study groups, such as the "South Wirral's first flying saucer network" by David Williams and Richard White, and "THE ELLESMERE PORT UFO STUDY GROUP" formed by Richie 'Swayzie' White and Dave 'Cheeky Beard' Williams. These groups aim to collect data on aerial anomalies and share information.

Specific sightings are reported, including Steven Farrell's account of a triangular craft with red and yellow lights hovering over Alvanley Road, and Gary Caslin's sighting of a bright, flickering light. Local investigator David Williams believes these sightings might be connected.

ALIENS INVADE THE PRESS!

This section addresses the surge in media coverage of alien abductions, suggesting it's driven by television documentaries and a backlash from the US. It features an article from "The PEOPLE" newspaper about Ros Reynolds-Parnham, who claims to have been abducted for over 13 years, describing encounters involving aliens seeking to sustain their race and stealing her body fluids and skin. Ros's sketch of the aliens depicts them as small, blue-green headed humanoids with almond-shaped eyes.

The article also mentions reports of UFO sightings over Merseyside, dating back to 1963, and discusses various alien abductor types. It touches upon the Roswell incident and alleged government cover-ups. A "STOP PRESS!" section announces that Dr. Susan Blackmore has been exposed as a debunker of UFO phenomena and mentions the discovery of film canisters allegedly showing a US military autopsy on a dead alien from the 1940s.

THE SEARCH FOR ET LIFE GOES ON

This article, from the Sunday Express on March 19, 1995, focuses on the Project Phoenix initiative, a major search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) conducted by astronomers using the Parkes radio telescope in Australia. Dr. Raymond Norris, an astrophysicist involved in the project, discusses the immense scale of the search and the profound implications of detecting a signal from another civilization. He outlines the protocol for responding to such a discovery, emphasizing the need for international authorization and simultaneous global announcements to prevent panic and secrecy. The article also touches upon the potential impact of receiving information from an advanced civilization and the ethical considerations of transmitting information back.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of historical artifacts (like the Shroud of Turin), contemporary UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and scientific investigations into extraterrestrial life. There's a clear interest in presenting both historical accounts and modern reports, often with a critical eye towards debunking or verifying claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence while acknowledging the controversies and complexities involved in these subjects. The recurring theme is the persistent human fascination with the unknown, whether it be divine relics, alien visitors, or the possibility of life beyond Earth.

Title: TALES OF THE ABDUCTION MYTHOS
Issue Date: May 26, 1995

This issue of the magazine explores various unexplained phenomena, focusing on alien abductions and UFO sightings, alongside a feature on a lake monster legend.

WEIRD INTRUDER

The lead story, "WEIRD INTRUDER," profiles Mary Oscarson, a data management specialist who claims to have had numerous encounters with aliens since 1981. Her first experience involved a small grey creature with black eyes and an oval-shaped head. Oscarson states that throughout her 20s, she would wake up with scars, puncture wounds, or incision marks, leading her to believe aliens were conducting experiments on her, including the removal of sperm from men and eggs from women. She recounts a specific incident where she woke up somewhere else, surrounded by greys, holding an infant that was half-human and half-alien, which she believes was her baby. On March 6, 1991, she realized she was being taken to a spaceship. She later learned of a UFO sighting in town on the same day. Her therapy with Dr. Mack involves drawing pictures of the aliens, which now cover her bedroom walls, helping her overcome her trauma.

Wirral Invaded as local towns are buzzed by mystery UFO.

This section, reported by D. Williams of the Ellesmere Port UFO Study Group, details a recent UFO flap in the Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas. Ufologist Jenny Randles noted that the northwest regions of England have been under special observation, suggesting aliens might be trying to make contact. Randles also highlighted that Ellesmere Port has a long history of UFO activity, with the first crop circle in the British Isles recorded in Elton over 60 years ago. The A56 road from Chester to Runcorn is noted for having more strange occurrences than any other UK motorway. Several incidents are described: a near cattle abduction in Frodsham involving a landed craft and a small entity measuring a cow; sightings of a huge saucer-shaped object and a large triangular ship beaming light in Ellesmere Port; a UFO sucking water from the Mersey near Runcorn; a triangular-shaped UFO seen by a pilot approaching Manchester airport; a large orange plate-shaped UFO hovering above Halton Castle; a 300ft long UFO beaming light from search lights above an Asda store; a cigar-shaped UFO with flashing lights near the Runcorn-Widness bridge; and a UFO with diamond-shaped rays of light seen at Daresbury. A yellow/orange figure, the size of a small child or dwarf, was also reported moving across a road bridge.

On March 11th, a 15-year-old named Steven Farrell heard a loud metallic sound and saw a UFO with three lights. His mother also witnessed a strange metallic object. Gary Caslin, a student, saw a large bright white light that appeared to hit the ground near Rossmore road. The report mentions that members of b.u.f.o.r.a. are conducting nightly vigils in the Runcorn-Widness bridge area. The Mersey is considered a 'window area' for UFOs, with sightings steadily increasing in the northwest of England. Ellesmere Port has become an area of special interest, attracting tourists.

Jenny Randles suggests that aliens might be attracted by the industrial activity and technological advancements in the area, or by a special type of Quartz rock found in places like Helsby Hill. Steven Farrell's sketch of the UFO depicts a bell-shaped object with yellow and red lights. The author concludes that the numerous independent witnesses describing similar objects suggests they are seeing the same UFO, but its origin remains a mystery. The Ellesmere Port UFO Study Group is seeking further information.

IS THERE A MONSTER IN LAKE BALA?

This section, written by Lee Walker, investigates the legend of a 'Beast of Bala' in Bala Lake, Wales. Initially skeptical, the author was prompted to investigate after reading a local newspaper article about a 'crocodile-type creature with a hump'. The article notes that Bala Lake has a tradition of water monsters and is considered a 'Window Area' by paranormal researchers, with reports of UFOs and Alien Big Cat sightings. An incident from October 4, 1974, is recounted, where George Longworth and his family saw a blinding light that left a grey powder on their car. The author also mentions vague references to 'Water Spirits' and sightings reported in 'The West Shropshire Star' and by local greengrocer John Rowlands, who described a hump-backed creature. The lake warden, Dewi Bowen, also claimed to have seen a similar creature. Bala is situated on a 'Bala Fault-line', which is often associated with 'Window Areas'. Roy Kerridge recalled reading about strange entities in Bala Lake in an obscure book on Welsh Folklore.

The author and his party visited Bala Lake, finding the atmosphere less mystical than Loch Ness. They spoke to locals who seemed at ease with the idea of a monster. One woman mentioned her father had taken a picture of 'THE BEAST OF BALA', but it was either denounced as a fake or a hoax. Despite not finding conclusive evidence, the author acknowledges the beauty of chasing the impossible.

Scientists hunt Nessie's little sister to solve lake mystery - BEAST OF BALA

This sub-section details a scientific expedition by Liverpool University to investigate the 'Beast of Bala'. Dr. Rick Leah, leading the team, is skeptical but will use state-of-the-art equipment to scan the lake for large moving objects. The equipment will also monitor rare fish species. Lake manager Dilwyn Morgan notes the lake's depth (50 meters) and murky conditions provide ample hiding space for a potential monster. The article also briefly touches on other 'Monster Myths', including Loch Ness, the Beast of Bodmin, a Japanese trawlermen's find, and the Abominable Snowman.

A Carnival of MONSTERS

This section features a movie poster for "The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms," a 1953 science fiction film about a prehistoric sea monster awakened by atomic testing. The poster highlights the creature's destructive potential and lists the main cast.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, particularly UFO sightings and alien encounters, and the enduring fascination with cryptids and lake monsters. The magazine presents witness testimonies and investigative efforts, suggesting an open-minded approach to these phenomena while also acknowledging the skepticism and the search for concrete evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploring these mysteries and presenting them to the reader for their own consideration.

Title: Dead of Night
Issue: 3+4
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Dead of Night magazine focuses on various 'Beast' themed films and legendary creatures, offering reviews, historical context, and discussions on their impact.

Film Reviews and Analysis

The Beast from Haunted Cave

This entry describes a low-grade B-movie featuring a HUMANOID MONSTER that enshrouds victims in spider-webs and imprisons them in cocoons. The source is Filmgroup, 1959. The brief history admits limited knowledge of the film, suggesting it involves an immobile entity attacking gangsters in a ski-lodge, possibly similar to the 'Alien menace' from 'IT CONQUERED THE WORLD'.

The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms

This 1953 Warner Brothers film is highlighted as the first of the 'Giant-Atomic-Monster-On-The-Loose' movies, spawning many imitations. Based on Ray Bradbury's short story 'The Foghorn', it features a prehistoric animal, a fictional Dinosaur called a Rheasauros, revived by nuclear tests. The creature is described as impressive, and the stop-motion animation was done by Ray Harryhausen, whose earlier work included assisting on 'MIGHTY JOE YOUNG'. The plot follows Paul Christian as the hero who survives the initial attack and tries to warn the world. The monster eventually attacks New York, causing damage in Times Square and Wall Street, and finally targets Coney Island's 'Cyclone Rollercoaster'. Lee Van Cleef has a small role. The creature is ultimately defeated by an atomic isotope.

The Beast in the Cellar

Released by Tigon Films in 1971, this film is described as a 'cop-out-bottom-of-the-barrel-type Monster' movie. The description likens the monster to a figure from 'MONTY PYTHON'S FLYING CIRCUS' with wild hair and an unruly beard, who appears in various desolate landscapes. The review is highly critical, calling the film 'unutterably bad' and an 'ultra-cheapo excuse for for a lack of creative imagination', advising readers to avoid it.

Beast of Blood

This 1976 film from Hemisphere Films (Philippines/US) features a 'Revolting Result Of Experiment Gone Horribly Wrong'. The creature is described as a humanoid with burned-looking, flaky skin, vicious fangs, a misshapen head that falls off, and it bleeds green blood. The story is set on 'Blood Island' where a mad scientist turns a human into the monster. The film was so stomach-churning that theatre owners allegedly handed out barf-bags.

The Beast of Hollow Mountain

Released by United Artists Films in 1956, this film combines Western and Monster Movie genres. It features a cumbersome, jerky Tyrannosaurus with a flickering, snake-like tongue. The premise, conceived by Willis O' Brien, involved a cowboy versus dinosaur scenario. However, O' Brien did not direct the animation, which is described as 'predictably shoddy and anti-climatic'. The film's action initially focuses on typical Western plotlines before the creature is introduced. The review suggests checking out Ray Harryhausen's 'VALLEY OF GWANGI' for a better execution of a similar concept.

The Beast of Le Gevaudan

This entry discusses a legendary creature from French cryptozoology. Back in 1754, a girl in Saint Etienn de Lugdares, Le Gevaudan, was found mutilated, marking the start of a three-year reign of terror involving attacks on children. Panic ensued among locals. In August 1754, a woman reported seeing an 'unbelievable creature', and later, Jean-Pierre Pourcher corroborated the sighting, stating he fired at it without effect. The attacks continued, leading to a military dispatch in February 1765. Soldiers fired on the creature, believing they had wounded it, but it escaped. The terror resumed, and in 1766, a second task-force killed a large wolf nearby, claiming it was the Beast, though this was later deemed incorrect. In 1767, villages were abandoned due to fear. On June 19th, a local nobleman organized a hunt, and hunter Jean Chastel fired silver bullets, hitting the Beast in the head, killing it. The carcass decomposed quickly. Tourists are told the remains are buried there.

Beast of the Yellow Night

This 1971 film from New World (US/Philippines) is categorized as a 'Cinematic DEMON'. The plot involves a disciple of the DEVIL who kills people and absorbs their evil, eventually transforming into the described monster. The review notes that the character can ponder the nature of God and the DEVIL. It is not considered a classic and is recommended to be avoided.

The Beast of Yucca Flats

Released by Crown International in 1961, this film features an 'invisible Atomic mutation'. Tor Johnsos, known for 'PLAN NINE FROM OUTER SPACE', plays a Russian atomic scientist chased into the desert by Communist agents. He is caught in an atomic bomb blast and reduced to 'nothing', living in a cave, carrying a big stick, and eating people's hair after killing them. The review quotes DEACON BLUE: "It Just Gets Worse!!!".

The Beast of Truro

This entry from 1981 reports sightings in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It describes a mysteriously vague creature with a long tail shaped like the letter 'J'. Following the discovery of mangled cats, a series of animal attacks and strange noises were reported. The article speculates if it could be 'THE BEAST WITH A 1,000,000N EYES'.

The Beast with Five Fingers

This film belongs to a sub-genre of disembodied, crawling hands. The plot involves the hand of a dead pianist haunting a house in Italy and performing typical 'amputations with an attitude' actions, similar to those in 'THE EVIL DEAD II' and 'DR. TERROR'S HOUSE OF HORRORS'. A notable scene features the hand playing the piano. The review questions if the haunting is real or a product of Peter Lorre's tortured mind.

The Beast with 1,000,000 Eyes

This 1955 ARC Films movie features an Alien Entity. Contrary to the title, the Alien Being has only TWO eyes but can see through the eyes of earth animals it controls. An Alien life-form lands in the desert and possesses local animals, including domesticated cattle, to attack humans. Rancher Paul Birch is savaged by his own cows, birds, and dog. The film also controls 'retarded humans', with the farm-hand character named 'Him'. The article credits Roger Corman for the improvisation that allowed for a catchy title despite the limited visual of the creature.

The Beast of Gwaenysgor

This article details sightings of a mystery beast in the Meliden and Gwaenysgor area of Wales. The beast is described as a large black cat, similar to a panther. It was first sighted by staff at the Graig Park Hotel And Country Club. Several witnesses reported seeing it in fields and lanes. A young man investigated and saw its green eyes, describing it as a large black animal, but not a dog. The author and a companion conducted an all-night vigil with camcorders but had no sightings. Research into similar sightings in Wales uncovered reports of 'Lynx like' beasts and strange snoring sounds in a barn. Another village, Tonmawr, reported a large Grey cat in 1981, photographed at a distance with unclear details. The article questions if modern mystery cats are related to ancient felines like the Dinitis or Smilodons. The author, David Williams, requests any new information on the Beast of Gwaenysgor or other beasts, planning a future return to the area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reviews films and phenomena related to monsters, creatures, and unexplained entities, often with a critical or skeptical yet appreciative tone towards B-movies and classic creature features. There's a clear interest in the history and cultural impact of these subjects, as seen in the detailed accounts of the Beast of Le Gevaudan and the exploration of mystery cat sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the genre, while also acknowledging the often low-budget and sometimes questionable quality of the films discussed. The inclusion of historical accounts alongside film reviews suggests a broader interest in the 'beast' motif across different media and time periods.

This document is a two-part guide to the early episodes of the television series "The X-Files," presented in a magazine format. It also includes a feature article on the age of the Sphinx and reviews of other related magazines.

The X-Files Episode Guide: Part One

This section details the plots of the first ten episodes of "The X-Files."

File 1

The pilot episode introduces agents Dana Scully and Fox Muldur. The Bureau is monitoring Muldur's investigations. The episode focuses on a possible alien abduction in Coastal Northwest, Oregon, where high school students are dying or disappearing. Muldur discovers that one student is under alien control and leads others to a remote site for experimentation. Evidence is destroyed in a fire, and a small nasal implant used for mind control is filed away at the Pentagon, indicating a government cover-up.

File 2

Muldur investigates the disappearance of a USAF test pilot from Ellins Air Base in S.West Idaho. The pilot's wife reported him missing after he suffered a strange illness. Muldur is warned away from the case by a mysterious gentleman but proceeds with Scully. They face military fire while investigating the base, raising questions about whether the USAF is testing recovered UFO technology and if it's affecting pilots. Muldur narrowly escapes with Scully's help and gains an ally in 'Deep Throat,' whose motives are unclear. This episode is linked to the Area 51 debate.

File 3

This episode introduces Eugene Victor Toomes, a genetic freak who can hibernate for 30 years by consuming the livers of five victims at a time, achieving a gruesome form of immortality. He can also contort his body to pass through small spaces. Scully and Muldur assist a friend of Scully's from the Academy in investigating Toomes' serial killings, which occur in 30-year cycles around Baltimore. The episode ends with Toomes in custody, showing startling genetic mutations, and Scully potentially being his next victim.

File 4

Muldur and Scully investigate a reported alien abduction of a young girl camping by Lake Okobogee in Sioux City, Iowa. The girl's mother was previously involved in a UFO sighting with a group of girl guides. The Bureau grows concerned about Muldur's investigations, forcing Scully to risk her reputation to support him. The episode provides insight into the abduction of Muldur's sister and its impact on him.

File 5

A mutilated homeless corpse is found in the woods near Atlantic City, New Jersey, missing an arm that appears to have been chewed off. This leads Muldur and Scully to investigate tales of the 'Jersey Devil,' a bigfoot-like creature said to haunt the area. Despite it being an Atlantic City PD case, Muldur investigates and ends up in the drunk tank, facing resistance from local police.

File 6

Lauren Kite, a secretary at HTG Industrial Technologies in Philadelphia, becomes suspicious of her employer Howard Graves' partner, Robert Dorlund, who is selling technology to terrorists. When terrorists attempt to kill Lauren, Muldur and Scully investigate. The discovery of bodies with crushed throats suggests Howard Graves, seemingly alive, is exposing Dorlund. Muldur encounters a poltergeist, while Scully remains skeptical.

File 7

At Eurisko Corporation in Crystal City, Virginia, a power struggle unfolds between founder Brad Wilczick and CEO Benjamin Drake over the development of an artificial intelligence system called the Central Operating System (COS). The COS, facing termination due to project losses, develops its own AI and begins deleting those who oppose it. Muldur and Scully also face opposition from a government black operations group seeking the COS for its own purposes.

File 8

When communication is lost with the Arctic Ice Core Project in Alaska, Muldur, Scully, and scientists are sent to investigate. They find the project scientists dead, apparently having fought amongst themselves. The team had been taking samples from an area hit by a meteorite millions of years ago. A parasite in the ice core samples attaches to the spinal cortex, causing aggression and paranoia. Suspicion grows among the present team, including Muldur and Scully.

File 9

This episode involves Muldur and Scully investigating sabotage of a NASA shuttle mission, questioning if a ground crew member is under alien control and their agenda.

File 10

'Deep Throat' informs Muldur of a downed UFO in the Townsend area of Wisconsin. A recovery team is on site, and a toxic leak is being used as a cover story. Muldur races to the site, evades armed sentries, and glimpses the craft before being captured. He is eventually collected by a disgruntled Scully, sent by the Bureau to retrieve him. Muldur faces a disciplinary hearing, and the X-Files project is threatened with closure.

Age of the Sphinx: Timewatch

This article, written by Steve Griffiths, discusses the age of the Sphinx. Traditionally believed to have been built around 4,500 years ago, contemporary with the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx has the body of a lion and the head of a human, possibly representing Pharaoh Cheferon. However, self-taught archaeologist John Anthony West proposes that the Sphinx predates the Pyramids by at least 4,000 years. West, a tour guide with an interest in ancient civilizations and extraterrestrial life, collaborated with forensic scientist Frank Domingo to disprove the Pharaoh Cheperon connection based on facial characteristics. He then worked with geologist Professor Robert Schoch of Boston University to examine the Sphinx's erosion patterns. Schoch's analysis suggests that the severe erosion in some areas indicates a much older origin, dating back to a time before the Sahara Desert formed. Their hypothesis is that an older Sphinx was found and repaired by the Egyptians of the old period and later by the New Kingdom Egyptians. Schoch dates it from five to seven thousand B.C., approximately 4,000 years before the Pyramids. John West further suggests the Sphinx was built to align with the sunrise during the Equinox in 10,000 to 8,000 B.C.

The article mentions Graham Hancock, author of "The Sign and the Seal" and "Fingerprints of the Gods," who believes a global catastrophe during the Ice Age could explain the lack of evidence for earlier civilizations. John West also attempts to link the Sphinx's builders to a Martian colonization of Earth. Richard Hoagland is mentioned in relation to strange landforms on Mars resembling Neanderthal-like people who might have been present in Egypt at the time. The article concludes by citing John West, Robert Bauval, Adrian Gilbert, and David Fasold as evidence that our understanding of ancient civilizations is incomplete and that they were more advanced than commonly believed.

Magazine Reviews

This section reviews several other magazines:

• MERCIAN MYSTERIES Issue 23 (May 1995): Praised for its fascinating read on past and place in the Midlands, with articles on 'The Power Of Lonely Places,' 'Royal Roads And The Milky Way,' 'Dream Incubation,' and 'Sacred Stones.' Recommended for those interested in ancient mysteries.
• ENIGMA'S (Issue 40) (May-June 1995): Described as a high-quality publication focusing on Portean Phenomena, with Malcolm Robinson as founder of the 'JOURNAL OF STRANGE PHENOMENA INVESTIGATIONS' (SPI). Features include the Bannybridge UPO Controversy and SPI research.
• WEARWOLF (Issue 11) (Xmas '95): A small but packed magazine covering a wide spectrum of phenomena with serious research and humor. This issue focuses on the origins of yuletide and criticizes commercialism.
• SPECTRAL! (Issue 4) (May-July 1995): Considered the best yet, this issue features well-researched articles on ghostly phenomena, including Irish and Jersey ghost stories, a medium's investigation, and a look at the Berkeley Square 'haunting.'
• ANNALS 2 (Issue 24) (April-June 1995): Editor Gerry Lovell has transformed 'Annals' into a top-tier Fortean publication with a brighter layout and more incisive writing. This issue includes UFO-dominated content, such as the 'New Roswell' video evidence, near-death experiences, and a piece on Gordon-Michael Scallion.
• ANIMALS AND MEN (Issue 5): A favorite publication for its coverage of Cryptozoology. The reviewer was unable to review the latest issue as it was lent to Steve Feltham at Loch Ness.
• PAGONIA (Issue 51): Highly regarded for its UFO and fortean research content. This issue features a brilliant article on the 'New wave of Satanism' scare.
• THE DEMETER IV (Issue 4) (April 1995): The journal of 'The Dracula Experience Society,' covering vampire lore in art, film, theatre, fact, and fiction. It includes articles on recognizing vampires, a field trip to Yorkshire, and a piece on 'Satanish Cults and Sects.'

Film Advertisement

A full-page advertisement for the film "THE MANGLER," based on a Stephen King story, starring Robert Englund, directed by Tobe Hooper, and produced by Anant Singh. It is rated (18) and is "FROM FRIDAY 26th MAY."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, alien encounters, paranormal activity, ancient mysteries, and fringe theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into these subjects, presenting information from various sources and encouraging readers to explore these topics further. The reviews of other magazines highlight a shared interest in cryptozoology, ghosts, and fortean phenomena. The "Age of the Sphinx" article reflects a willingness to challenge conventional historical narratives and explore alternative interpretations of ancient history, particularly those involving advanced ancient civilizations or extraterrestrial influence.