Welcome to the first edition of Black Moon, a publication dedicated to exploring the mysteries, legends, and the paranormal of Canada. Through stories passed down from generation to generation, we aim to dive into the most enigmatic side of this vast and diverse country, offering you a unique glimpse into its culture, mythology, and traditions. Our goal is to create a deep connection with those who, like new immigrants, are beginning to call Canada home. We want our stories to help them better understand the roots of Canadian culture and immerse themselves in its rich history of legends that, though ancient, still resonate today.
In every issue, you will find tales that will send chills down your spine, but also an opportunity for you to share your own experiences. We know that Canada is a multicultural country, which is why we have dedicated a special section for readers around the world to submit their personal stories, myths, or legends. The best of these stories will be illustrated and published at the end of the magazine, highlighting the voices of our diverse community.
Additionally, as part of our mission, we have included a section dedicated to tourism in these mysterious locations we narrate. In this way, we hope not only to immerse you in the mystery but also to invite you to explore these real destinations, so you can experience the story for yourself and discover the wonders that Canada has to offer.
We are excited to share this journey into the unknown with you, while also bringing you closer to the rich culture of Canada. We hope you enjoy every page!
Sincerely,
Rebeca Garcia Creative Director and Editor
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LEYEND STORIES
“Deep in the heart of the forest, where the mist whispers forgotten secrets, the Wendigo waits... hungry, eternal, and always lurking.”
Paranormal stories from Canada
THE WENDIGO, The terror OF NATURE
In a remote corner of the north, three men came together to embark on an expedition that promised to reveal the secrets of the wild. Hank, a man experienced in outdoor life; Dr. Cathcart, a man of science who clung to reason; and Simpson, a young theology student, drawn to legends and the spiritual. The trio hired a local guide to accompany them on this journey: Défago, a Franco-Canadian expert in forest routes, known for his endurance and knowledge of the terrain. During the first few days, everything seemed normal. Défago easily guided them through the thickets, showing them forgotten paths and telling them the legends and myths
that populated the area—stories known only to the oldest of the region. Among them was the story of the Wendigo, a creature feared by Indigenous people, a spirit said to devour the souls of men, driving them to madness. As they advanced, something in the air began to feel different, though none of the men could identify it. The stillness of the forest was profound, and the trees seemed to murmur under the weight of the fog that slid along the ground. At night, the stars quickly disappeared behind dense clouds, and during the day, the sun struggled to pierce the treetops, leaving the camp in a constant twilight. Even the wind seemed to have a presence of its own, as if it watched them
“ One day, after a long stretch through the forest, Défago began to act strangely. His face was pale, and his gaze was distant. As the days passed, his behavior worsened, and his once-confident words became incoherent whispers. “
from afar, waiting for the right moment to unleash its fury. At first, the trio tried to convince themselves that everything was natural, a wild forest where the uncertainty of the terrain was part of the challenge. However, a sense of unease gripped them each time the fog thickened or a distant crack broke the silence. Tensions began to rise. Simpson, in his eagerness to understand the spirituality of the place, began to speak more about the primal forces lurking in the world, while Dr. Cathcart tried to rationalize everything he saw. Hank, the most practical, was not influenced by the stories, but something in the atmosphere of the place began to trouble him.
Défago spoke to them about a presence that followed him, a shadow in the forest that constantly stalked him.
One night, after an exhausting day, Défago disappeared without a trace. The three men spent hours searching, calling his name, but there was no answer. Finally, they found him near the camp, in an almost catatonic state. He was covered in mud and leaves, his body filthy, and his mind clearly disturbed. In his eyes, there was an emptiness, a look that no longer recognized his companions. Days later, Défago’s behavior worsened. He had forgotten who he was, no longer remembered his companions, and most disturbingly, he seemed to have been touched by something dark. His memory was gone, his personality vanished, and he became a shadow of himself, speaking of voices, shadows, and something that watched him. At times, he mentioned seeing the Wendigo, the monster that, according to him, had started to stalk him. Dr. Cathcart, though skeptical, could not ignore the signs that something very strange was happening. Défago had completely lost his memory, and his behavior became increasingly erratic. He no longer recognized his companions, not even remembering his own name. “It seemed as though he had been absorbed by a greater force, a dark presence that had transformed him into a shadow of what he had been.” Simpson, for his part, began to convince himself that what had happened was not simply a mental disorder, but something much deeper, something that transcended human understanding. He spoke of the Powers from beyond, how nature itself had claimed Défago for itself. One afternoon, as the group was returning to camp, they found Défago rummaging through
the ashes of a dead fire, with empty eyes and no expression. He had forgotten his identity, and with it, his humanity. He was no longer the man who had guided their expedition, but a lost entity, trapped between the physical world and the beyond. It was then that Hank, the most sensible of the group, saw that the situation was much more serious than it seemed.
However, it wasn’t until Punk, a native who had been working with the group, appeared at the end that the pieces fell into place. Punk, seeing Défago’s state, immediately understood what had really happened. It was then that a native man, Punk, appeared at the camp. Punk was a member of the local tribe who had been following the expedition from afar, knowing that something was wrong.
Although he hadn’t been present from the beginning, he had been observing and listening to the stories that Défago had spoken of. When he saw the condition Défago was in, he knew right away that the story of the Wendigo was not just a legend. Punk knew the power of the Wendigo, a creature feared in his culture, and understood that the being had marked Défago, taking his soul. Trying to help the men, Punk explained to them what had really happened: the Wendigo had claimed Défago, and any attempt to save him would be futile. The creature had touched his mind and spirit, condemning him irreparably. Before the others could fully comprehend the gravity of the situation, Punk left the camp, as if fearing that the curse would reach him too. He knew that his presence was not only danger
ous to them but also to him. The Wendigo did not forgive, and the forces of nature it had unleashed were far too powerful. The expedition ended in tragedy. Défago disappeared shortly after, losing his sanity and fading into the wilderness. The legend of the Wendigo, though it seemed only a myth to the three men, turned out to be much more than that. It was a real presence that had claimed Défago, taking his humanity, his soul, and his reason. Upon the return of the expedition, Dr. Cathcart and Simpson tried to understand what had occurred, but they never reached a conclusion that could explain what they had experienced. The only thing they knew for sure was that something dark had happened, something they could not fully understand. Hank, for his part, finally confessed to his companions that he too had had a close encounter with the presence of the Wendigo. He saw it in the shadows of the forest, a gigantic figure lurking at the edge of his vision, watching him mercilessly. Though he was never touched by the creature, the terror he experienced marked him forever. The Wendigo was not just a legend, but a terrifying force, beyond any human power. And they, facing it, had been marked forever.
The HAND IN Lake Manitoba
“Deep in the heart of the forest, where the mist whispers forgotten secrets, the Wendigo waits... hungry, eternal, and always lurking.”
The Hand That Calls from the
Waters
The night on Lake Manitoba was thick and suffocating. The mist crawled over the surface like spectral fingers, hiding what lurked beneath.
Noah Parker, a young fisherman from the area, had heard the legend since childhood, told in whispers by the elders on cold winter nights. He had always thought of it as a story to scare children, but that night, his doubts began to fade.
“The hand of the lake does not forget...,” his grandfather had told him, his voice cracked by the passage of time. “Years ago, someone awoke its wrath.
No one has returned whole.” Noah had never thought those words were anything more than a simple myth. However, something in the air that night pushed him toward the lake. He had reached the age where many mock the stories of the elders, thinking they are nothing but superstitions. But something had changed in him.
The idea that the lake might hold hidden secrets, something more than just a simple legend, began to echo in his mind. Deep down, Noah felt he needed to prove for himself that those stories were just tales. With determination, that very day, he assembled his boat and
Noah jerked his head sharply. There was no one. Only the moon, reflected on the water, trembling as if something had touched it. The air felt thicker, and he felt as if something was watching him from the shadows. The shore was empty, yet the feeling of being watched made him tense. The boat rocked. Something struck the wood beneath. Noah felt a chill run down his spine. He rowed with all his strength, trying to move away, but the water became thick, heavy, as though it was holding him back. Then he saw it.
decided to go to the lake. Perhaps it was the desire to face his fears or the arrogance of youth, but what drove him was not belief in the curse, but the need to prove the elders wrong. With an oar in his hand, he pushed the boat away from the shore. “Nothing they said is true,” he thought, unaware that this decision would lead him into the unknown.
The current shifted, and the water, once calm, began to move with a strange force. His hands gripped the oar as a soft sound, barely a murmur, floated on the breeze. A groan, a lament, as if someone were calling him from the opposite shore. “ Help...please... ”
The boat rocked. Something struck the wood beneath. Noah felt a chill run down his spine. He rowed with all his strength, trying to move away, but the water became thick, heavy, as though it was holding him back. Then he saw it. A pale hand emerged from the lake, skeletal, with long, twisted fingers that looked like gnarled roots. It dripped dark water, and its sharp nails scraped the surface with a screeching sound. Noah could not move. His eyes were fixed on the figure slowly rising from the depths. It was not just a hand. It was a whole body, a translucent silhouette of decomposing flesh and hollow eyes, empty like the abyss. “Give me back my life...” The voice did not come from
its mouth, but from the water itself, reverberating in his head. A whirlpool formed around the boat, and Noah felt something cold and slimy wrap around his ankle. It tugged at him, pulling him forcefully. Something whispered in the wind, one more word, as if coming from everywhere. “Do you remember what you did, Noah?... The young man screamed, but no one heard him. He clung to the edges of the boat, kicking, trying to break free. His fingers scratched at the wood, his breath erratic. He felt sharp nails on his skin, the pressure of an icy hand wrapping around his calf. The water began to swallow him.
With one last effort, he managed to reach his fishing knife and plunged it into the spectral hand. A superhuman screech echoed in the night, making the air vibrate and the waters stir. The hand released him. Noah scrambled into the boat, gasping, his heart pounding in his chest. The water calmed. The mist slowly dissipated. But he knew it wasn’t over. When he reached the shore, the water still dripping from his clothes, a sharp pain made him shudder. He lifted the leg of his pants and felt his stomach churn. There, on his calf, were five marks from fingers... as if something still clung to him, waiting. The moon no longer illuminated the scene with its clarity. Everything was dark, as if the
night had lasted longer than it should. As he walked toward his house, he felt a presence following him. It wasn’t a shadow, nor a clear sound, but something in the air told him he was not alone. In his mind, the same phrase echoed over and over, a whisper that wouldn’t go away: “Give me back my life...”
Since then, Noah never returned to the lake at dusk. But sometimes, on the coldest nights, he swears he hears the whisper in the wind, and he feels the mark on his leg burn, reminding him that the hand of the lake does not forget.
MYTHS IN CANADA
SEDNA, THE SEA SPIRIT
Myths from Canada
Sedna is a sea spirit who lives in a region called Adliden, in the ocean depths. She is the creator of all marine beings and is often hostile toward humans, especially when they act wrongly, punishing them with bad weather, diseases, and failures in hunting and fishing. The souls of the dead also reach her domain to be judged. But it was not always this way
SEDNA
AS A CHILD
On a distant island lived a father and his daughter. The man had become a widower, and it was the young girl who took care of him. As the girl grew, she became a stunningly beautiful woman, and all the men in the village wanted to marry her. However, she rejected them all, bringing shame to her father. One day, a ship arrived at the island. Its captain, a handsome foreigner, seduced her and convinced her to run away with him. The young woman boarded the ship, leaving her father alone and without even saying goodbye.
SEDNA
AND THE SHAMAN
A few days later, the young woman discovered the truth.
The handsome man was actually a sorcerer (or a shaman) who could transform from a human into a giant raven. Regretful of her decision, she tried to escape, but the sorcerer held her captive. From afar, her father could hear his daughter’s cries. Without hesitation, he set out in his kayak to rescue her. The man reached the ship, and Sedna climbed into the kayak to escape with her father. Seeing his captive fleeing, the sorcerer used his powers to unleash a storm. The sea seemed to speak to him, but it was actually the voice of the shaman, who demanded that he surrender his daughter or both would perish. Terrified, the father gave in to what he believed was the will of the sea itself and threw his daughter overboard.
SEDNA’S TRANSFORMATION
For a moment, the young woman seemed to sink into the depths, but she surfaced and clung to the edge of the small boat, making it rock violently. Her father, in desperation, took an axe and cut off his daughter’s fingers so she would let go. As they fell into the water,
her fingers transformed into fish and small seals. From her wounds, walruses, whales, and all the other marine animals we know began to emerge. Only then did the ocean calm the fury unleashed by the sorcerer. Sedna sank to the bottom of the sea, where she still resides as the protector of the ocean.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SEDNA
Sedna is of great significance to Arctic communities, as their survival depends on the animals that came from her. This makes her an essential figure in Northern myths. Her story serves as an explanation for the origins of the marine creatures in the Arctic Ocean.
THE GUARDIAN OF THE SKY
Long ago, when the world was still in balance between the spirits of the earth and the sky, there was a village surrounded by forests and sacred mountains. High atop the tallest peaks lived the Oiseau de Tonnerre, a majestic being with wings as vast as the clouds and eyes that flashed like the fire of the heavens. Its mission was to protect the land from the dark forces lurking in the shadows.
One day, a great drought fell upon the village. The rivers dried up, the crops withered, and the animals vanished. The elders knew something was wrong, for the thunder no longer rumbled in the sky, and the rain had ceased to fall.
A brave young man named Misko, determined to save his people, set out on a journey to the sacred mountains in search of the Thunderbird. He climbed treacherous paths, crossed dry riverbeds, and endured the icy winds of the heights until, at last, he reached the summit.
There, he found a massive nest among the rocks, but it was empty. Instead, he came face to face with a giant serpent with scales as black as the night— Unktehila, the enemy of the Oiseau de Tonnerre. The creature had taken over the mountain and had coiled itself around the sky guardian, preventing it from flying and bringing the rain.
Without hesitation, Misko took his spear and challenged the ser-
pent. He fought with courage, dodging its attacks and striking with cunning. In a final attempt to free itself, the young warrior slashed the scales binding the Thunderbird’s wings. At that moment, the great spirit soared into the sky with a thunderous roar that shook the earth.
The Oiseau de Tonnerre rose among the clouds and, with a mighty cry, unleashed a
storm upon the village. The rivers flowed once more, the plants blossomed, and the defeated serpent slithered away into the depths of the earth.
Misko returned as a hero, but he knew that the true guardian was the Thunderbird, whose song would forever echo in the skies, reminding humanity that nature always rewards those who protect it.
“When the earth calls for help, only the brave answer. Misko defied the darkness, but it was the song of the Oiseau de Tonnerre that brought life back to the world.”
Myths from Canada
Myths from Canada
Nanabozho and the Creation of Turtle Island
In the early days of the world, when the land was only water, all that existed was the vast ocean and the endless sky. There were no mountains, no rivers, no animals—only an immense, formless sea with no purpose. But the Great Spirit, known by many as Manitou, decided that there must be land for all living beings to thrive. Thus began the great cycle of creation.
During this primordial time, animals were wise and powerful, each possessing a special gift. They were the guardians of the world, and when the Great Spirit entrusted them with the task of finding a place where life could flourish, they began their search.
THE SEARCH FOR LAND
The animals swam and flew across the ocean, seeking a place where new land could emerge. But the task was harder than they had imagined. They swam for days and days, explored the depths, and traveled great distances, finding nothing but infinite water. The duck was the first to dive. With great bravery, it plunged deep into the ocean, but upon reaching the bottom, it found only darkness and cold, no land. It returned to the surface exhausted, but empty-handed. Next, the beaver, known for its ability to build and create, took its turn. It dived beneath the water, swimming longer than the duck, and in the depths, it found a bit of mud. With effort, it tried to bring it to the surface,
but the mud crumbled in its paws. It, too, returned defeated. Other animals tried as well—the otter, the wolf, and many others—but none could find what they sought: a piece of solid ground where life could take root.
THE ARRIVAL OF THE TURTLE
Seeing the animals’ failed attempts, the Great Spirit inter
vened to offer a solution. At that moment, a great turtle, known as Mukwa in the Anishinaabe language, emerged from the waters. The turtle, with its strong and steady shell, offered its help. The turtle spoke in a deep, wise voice and said: “Upon my back, I will carry the land. If the animals are wise enough to find it, I will hold life upon my shell.” With these words, the turtle submerged itself beneath the waters and emerged once more, larger than ever, with its shell covered in mud and earth. It was the perfect foundation for life to flourish.
“When everything was water and darkness, the turtle offered its back, and Nanabozho brought the earth. This is how the world was born, not through power, but through wisdom, unity, and sacrifice.”
THE CREATION OF THE LAND
Astonished and grateful for the turtle’s generosity, the animals began to work together.
The beaver, with its skill in construction, gathered the earth it had found at the bottom of the ocean, while the duck, eagle, and other flying creatures brought more soil from the depths. Smaller animals, like squirrels and foxes, helped spread the earth across the turtle’s shell, while larger animals, like the moose, helped distribute it evenly.
As the earth settled upon the turtle’s back, the landscape we know today began to take shape—mountains, valleys, rivers, and forests. Throughout the process, the Great Spirit watched with satisfaction, knowing that the land was now ready to sustain all forms of life.
THE BIRTH OF THE TURTLE ISLAND
As the animals completed their task, the turtle, which had remained still throughout the process, slowly began to move. The island that had formed upon its back started to take shape. Rivers began to flow through the newly created mountains, animals
roamed the new land, and plants and trees grew quickly, creating a home full of life and abundance. The island, now known as Turtle Island, became a sacred place of balance and harmony, where animals, plants, and humans could live together. The turtle, who had offered its back for the creation of the world, became a symbol of stability and the connection between earth, sky, and water. Its shell was a reminder of the strength and wisdom of Mother Earth, and its generosity and sacrifice were celebrated in the traditions of the indigenous peoples of the region.
THE LEGACY OF TURTLE ISLAND
The story of the creation of Turtle Island is more than just a legend; it is a lesson about cooperation, generosity, and respect for the land and all its creatures.
In Anishinaabe culture, the turtle is seen as a symbol of ancient wisdom and the interconnection of all living beings. The island itself is a reminder of how the world was created and how humans, animals, and the earth must live in balance and harmony.
Over time, Turtle Island became home to many nations who understood that the land they inhabited was a sacred gift. The story of how the world was created upon the turtle’s shell continues to be passed down
through generations, reminding people that the earth is a sacred place that must be cared for and respected. Today, Indigenous peoples of North America continue to honor the turtle as a symbol of protection, wisdom, and the vital connection to the land. Through ceremonies, songs, and oral traditions, they keep alive the memory of how Turtle Island rose from the waters and how all living beings have a role to play in maintaining balance and preserving the world.
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URBAN HORROR TALES
“You shouldn’t have opened the box… Now, he knows you’re here.”
The Guardian of Oblivion
oose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The underground tunnels of this small city have witnessed stories of smugglers and Chinese workers forgotten by history. But there is one story few dare to tell—one that remains alive in the shadows beneath the earth.
THE DESCENT
Franco, an amateur urban explorer, had heard rumors of a hidden passage within the tourist tunnels. One night, determined to uncover the truth behind the myth, he slipped through a barely perceptible crack in the brick wall and descended into a narrow corridor that didn’t appear on any maps. As he moved forward, the air grew denser, thick with humidity and a rancid smell. His flashlight illuminated walls covered in strange markings—symbols carved into the stone that he didn’t recognize. That’s when he stumbled upon something unexpected: an old wooden box, covered in dust and cobwebs. With trembling hands, he lifted the lid. Inside, he found old photographs, papers with names written in Mandarin, and a small diary with yellowed pag-
es. As he flipped through it, something caught his attention: the last page contained a warning, written in red ink. “If you’re reading this, it’s already too late. He knows you’re here.” The Shadow in the Darkness A chill ran down his spine. He felt a subtle shift in the air, as if something had moved behind him. He turned off his flashlight and held his breath. In the darkness, a raspy sound emerged from deep within the tunnel. It wasn’t an echo or the drip of water. It was slow, heavy breathing—getting closer. Panic took hold of him. He switched the flashlight back on and turned toward the sound. At the end of the corridor, a tall, hunched figure watched him. Its eyes gleamed with a ghostly white glow, and its skin seemed to be made of shifting shadows. Franco wanted to run, but his legs wouldn’t respond. The figure advanced with a dragging step, leaving behind a whispering murmur of overlapping voices, as if hundreds of souls were speaking at once. “You shouldn’t have opened the box...”
THE DISSAPPEARANCE
Days later, the police found Franco’s flashlight and camera halfway to the tunnel’s exit. In the last photo he took, just before his device fell to the ground, the silhouette of a man could be seen at the end of the corridor. No one could explain what had happened to Franco. His story was buried in oblivion—just like so many other souls trapped in the darkness of the Moose Jaw tunnels.
The Man with the Gas Mask
““In the shadows of Toronto’s subway, where the light fades and silence weighs heavy, he watches you. Don’t look back.”
The Shadow of Toronto’s Subway
Deep in the bowels of Toronto’s subway, where the lights flicker and the echo of the trains reverberates through the walls, some say they have heard the whisper of a terrifying secret. This is not a common rumor, nor a simple urban legend. It is the tale of a figure who appears when darkness closes in like a heavy curtain over the desolate stations. His name: The Man with the Gas Mask.
AN UNEXPECTED SIGHTING
The first recorded sighting occurred over three decades ago, on an unusually cold October night. A young woman named Jessica, who was waiting for the last train at St. Andrew sta-
tion, felt a strange presence behind her. Turning around, she saw him: a tall man, dressed in a heavy black coat and an opaque gas mask covering his face. What disturbed her the most was not his appearance, but the fact that he made no sound. He wasn’t walking, nor breathing. He was simply there. The young woman tried to scream, but her voice vanished into the cold air of the station. When she looked back, the figure had already disappeared.
THE ORIGIN OF THE SPECTER
The story of the Man with the Gas Mask is not just a local legend; its origin is shrouded in
mystery. Some believe it is the spirit of an old subway worker who died during the construction in the 1940s, in an accident involving toxic materials. Others claim the mask is not just an accessory but a form of protection for a being that does not belong to this world. The few witnesses who have survived encounters with the figure describe the sensation that when looking at the mask, something inside it distorted, as if reality itself was altered by its presence. Some even claim that those who have seen him never return the same. They can no longer sleep without feeling a strange pressure on their chest, as though they are being watched, stalked
THE LEGEND GROWS
As the reports of the Man with the Gas Mask spread, other unsettling details began to emerge. One passenger, who was completely alone in the subway one night, was found unconscious with strange marks on his neck, as if something had squeezed him with supernatural force.
His only memory was seeing a greenish glow behind the man’s mask, and a whisper in his ears saying, “You take more than you see.”
But the most terrifying part is that the Man with the Gas Mask seems to adapt to the station where he appears. The latest testimonies claim that his presence is felt most strongly in the less frequented stations, where the darkness is deeper. It is said that on the darkest nights, you can hear him walking through the empty tunnels, like a shadow watching all those who dare to descend into that underworld of concrete and metal.
strange, as if it were a distant echo. When he tried to run toward the exit, his footsteps were followed by a metallic noise, as if someone or something were walking right behind him. David never published that footage. Some say he burned it, while others claim it was a warning that he had seen more than he should have.
WHO IS THE MAN WITH THE GAS MASK?
Is he a ghost? A being from another dimension? Or a figure born from the collective fear of those who travel through To-
THE LAST ENCOUNTER: TENSION GROWS
In 2019, journalist David Turner, known for his obsession with investigating the inexplicable, decided to spend an entire night in the Toronto subway system to disprove the stories about the Man with the Gas Mask. With his recording equipment, he descended into the tunnels in the dead of night. Hours passed with nothing out of the ordinary. However, when his camera began to malfunction, the lights flickered and the temperature dropped sharply. It was then that he saw him: the same man, with the gas mask, now closer than ever. David recorded everything, but the footage only showed a shadow slowly approaching him. Upon reviewing the recording, he realized something even more disturbing: the figure made no sound at all, and as it came closer to him, the sound of its breathing was entirely
ronto’s dark tunnels? No one knows for sure. What is clear is that every time someone ventures too deep into the city’s depths, there is a figure watching them from the shadows. A figure who, with his gas mask, seems to be beyond death. And in his empty gaze, a mystery hides that may never be solved. If you ever find yourself alone in the Toronto subway stations, remember: if the air feels heavy, if the silence becomes an unbearable pressure, if you see a shadow moving in the gloom… you may have encountered the Man with the Gas Mask. And if that happens, don’t look back.
“In the dense mist of Capilano Bridge, where the past lingers and whispers travel with the wind, unseen eyes are always watching.”
Myths from Canada
The Legend of the Spirit of Capilano Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge, one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions, was originally built in 1889. During its construction and maintenance over the years, many Indigenous workers from the local First Nations took part in its development. According to legend, one of them died under tragic circumstances, falling into the Capilano River while working on the structure.
Since then, visitors and park employees have reported sightings of a spectral figure on foggy nights. This spirit is said to appear as a tall, silent shadow, sometimes wrapped in a traditional Indigenous cloak. Some witnesses claim to have heard whispers in an unknown language, while others have felt an eerie presence as they cross the bridge, as if someone were watching them.
A PROTECTIVE SPIRIT OR A WARNING?
Some interpretations suggest that the Spirit of Capilano Bridge is not an evil entity but rather a guardian protecting the area. In First Nations traditions, the spirits of ancestors often remain in sacred places, watching over the land and those who visit it.
However, others believe that the fallen worker seeks justice or recognition for his tragic death, reminding visitors that his story should not be forgotten.
If you ever cross Capilano Bridge on a cold, misty night, pay close attention. If you feel someone watching you, or hear a whisper among the trees, you may have encountered the Ghost of Capilano Bridge.
Echoes in the Mist
The Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, BC, is famous for its breathtaking views of the rainforest. However, when night falls and the mist creeps through the trees, the atmosphere changes, and some say they are not alone. It is said that a spirit walks along the wooden planks of the bridge, forever reliving its tragic fate.
THE HIKER’S ENCOUNTER
One autumn night, a group of friends decided to visit the bridge after the park had officially closed. With flashlights in hand and the thrill of a nighttime adventure, they crossed the structure, laughing and sharing ghost stories. But their excitement faded when a sudden chill filled the air, and the mist thickened unnaturally.
Samantha, one of the hikers, felt a shift in air pressure. Suddenly, their flashlights flickered, and a tall, dark figure emerged from the fog. Its silhouette was human, but its face was hidden beneath what appeared to be a traditional Indigenous cloak. The figure made no sound, yet a deep sadness radiated from its presence.
One of the boys, Sean, stepped
forward for a closer look, but as he did, the figure vanished as if it had never been there. The most unsettling part was what remained on the wooden floor of the bridge—damp footprints, as though someone had just walked barefoot across the surface.
WHISPERS IN THE DARKNESS
With their hearts pounding, they decided to leave. But as they turned back, a whisper drifted from the forest. It wasn’t the wind. It was a voice speaking in an unfamiliar language. Frozen with fear, Samantha felt something brush against her. A cold breath on the back of her neck made her scream, and she ran without looking back.
When they finally reached safety, they checked their phones— none of them had a signal. But as they reviewed their recordings from that night, they found something that left them speechless: the audio captured the sound of extra footsteps alongside theirs and heavy breathing that none of them recalled hearing at the time.
THE SPIRIT’S ORIGIN
Elders from the First Nations have spoken of this spirit for generations. It is said to be the soul of an Indigenous worker who lost his life, falling from the bridge during its construction. Some believe he protects the area, warning visitors of the forest’s dangers and keeping the memory of those who came before alive. Others think he seeks justice, recognition for the life that was unjustly taken.
One thing is certain—since that night, none of the hikers have returned to Capilano Bridge after sunset. And those who hear their story know that if they ever cross the bridge on a foggy night, they should not stare too long into the mist… for they might see something they do not wish to find.
SCIENCE FICTION
Sci-fi stories from Canada
Falcon Lake INCIDENT IN Manitoba
This strange case remains one of the most inexplicable UFO sightings of the mid20th century. Famous in Canada, it is widely doc umented and continues to baffle experts. Time has passed, but Stan Michalak still remembers how his father ventured into the Falcon Lake forest one day, only to return sick, pale, and burned after seeing a flying saucer. A flying saucer that, years later, remains a taboo subject in his family and among friends. “I was scared. My father was injured, and I didn’t know what had happened. People wouldn’t tell me anything about it.” It happened in 1967, in the peaceful and idyllic province of Manitoba, Canada,
a postcard-perfect place forever marked by an incident that continues to puzzle ufologists and paranormal enthusiasts.
THE STORY OF STEFAN MICHALAK
Stefan Michalak was a calm, peaceful man who worked as an industrial mechanic after emigrating from Poland to this remote region of Canada. As an amateur geologist, he enjoyed exploring the forests, climbing mountain slopes, and walking for hours—his favorite pastime—alone. Sometimes, he would inform his family, pack a sleeping bag, a tent, a backpack with water and supplies, and set off for a few days in the forest. It
was part of his routine, and he always brought back some treasures: quartz crystals, oddly shaped rocks, or minerals. Manitoba was his second home. He knew the trails and paths, as well as the safest places in case of sudden weather changes. But everything changed in May 1967, when he decided to venture into an area rarely visited by campers and hikers. He soon found a promising spot near a lake for collecting rock samples and discovered he could extract quartz from a vein. As the sun began to set, Michalak was startled by a strange noise—a blast similar to a horn, but much deeper. The sound frightened the few animals around and caused wild geese resting by the lake to take flight. Something urged him to investigate and abandon his work. A decision he would later regret. “He was examining a quartz vein when a noise alerted him” There, about 45 meters above the ground, hovering above the trees, he saw strange metallic round objects levitating
at a short distance from each other. At a glance, Michalak noticed red lights and flashing elements along the edges, with a glass dome on top of the saucers. He watched for a while until one of the objects moved forward, stopping just 50 meters from where he stood, emitting an increasingly intense light before landing on a flat rock. The other craft vanished into the clouds at high speed.
A CLOSE ENCOUNTER OF THE SECOND KIND
Believing it to be a military exercise, Stefan lay back, relaxed, and began sketching the craft for half an hour. He thought he was witnessing an experimental U.S. military vehicle conducting secret maneuvers and did not want to interfere. Then, he approached, confident, but soon started feeling slightly dizzy and detected a strong sulfuric smell. The mechanic was so close to the object that he could hear a soft humming sound, like a constantly running engine, similar to low-frequency vibrations. From his position, he could even see a small open door, through which, according to his account, he glimpsed many bright lights and incomprehensible colored panels inside. This is when things started to go terribly wrong. He heard strange voices, without knowing their source—though he assumed they came from inside the craft—and began calling for help, confused and desperate, gripped by a growing fear. “Hey, Yankees! Do
you need help?” he shouted, still convinced these were U.S. test aircraft. At that moment, the ship’s door slammed shut. When Stefan tried to touch it with his geology glove, it began to melt. The glove stuck to the fuselage, which was so polished and shiny that it seemed to emit its own light like the sun. The UFO started spinning rapidly, generating a loud noise, and at that moment, Stefan was struck in the chest by a massive blast of air and gas that threw him several meters backward, setting his clothes on fire. Lying among
the rocks from which he had observed the object, Stefan tore off his burning clothing, saw his scorched hands, and, disoriented, began his journey home. “The craft burned his chest and arms, leaving him with a sulfuric odor and causing dizziness” It was a grueling journey. He stopped several times to vomit, suffering from first- and second-degree burns, dizziness, and increasing confusion. He walked for over six hours until he reached a roadside motel, seeking help and asking to be taken to a hospital in Winnipeg.
There, the medical team interviewed Michalak, who, in great detail, recounted his bizarre encounter with the flying saucer he had almost entered. When doctors and nurses examined his chest, they discovered a large burn with a distinctive grid-like pattern. To verify his account, family members and investigators traveled to the site, where they found a 15-meter-diameter circle where the craft had landed—completely burned. Soil samples taken from the site contained radiation levels 100 times higher than those found in other areas of the forest. Stefan’s clothing supported parts of his story. When police and experts examined his belongings, they found them burned and emitting a strong sulfuric odor. Unanimously, they were deemed toxic and highly radioactive, suggesting exposure to a dangerous phenomenon. The sensation surrounding Stefan’s story was such that the area quickly became flooded with curious onlookers, journalists, and even ufologists drawn to the case, which gained worldwide attention. The Falcon Lake sheriff was overwhelmed by the influx of onlookers who disrupted the town and region for weeks, eventually issuing an official statement declaring the Falcon Lake forest area closed due to police and official investigations. “His testimony was coherent and unwavering: he passed a polygraph test and other examinations; he never recovered from the sighting” Weeks later, after being discharged, Stefan underwent an extensive psychiatric evaluation and was found to be completely sane and rational: his account showed no inconsistencies. He never altered his story, not a single word, and as years passed, he remained deeply disturbed by what he had seen and witnessed. His family avoided discussing the incident; he never fully recovered from the sighting. However, he never claimed to have witnessed an extraterrestrial phenomenon—he firmly believed that the UFO he had encountered at Falcon Lake was a secret military craft. Something that changed his life forever.
Sci-fi
stories from Canada
Naitaka, the Demon of the Lake
By Ruth Chambers and Jan Gattrell
The first Indigenous inhabitants of the Okanagan Valley told stories about a creature that lived in the lake. They described it as long, measuring between 35 and 65 feet in length. It had dark skin and humps on its back. Its head was shaped like a sheep, horse, or goat. Most importantly, it swam at great speed.
The Indigenous peoples called the lake monster Naitaka or N’ha-a-itk (pronounced Nuhhawaw-it-ck). This name meant “Lake Monster” or “Sacred Water Serpent.” They believed that Naitaka devoured people who ventured too close to the shore or traveled across the lake. To appease it, canoe travelers would bring a pig or a chicken with them. They would throw the animal into the water as a sacrifice to Naitaka.
The sacrifice was meant to keep Naitaka occupied long enough for people to cross the lake safely. It was especially important to offer a sacrifice when crossing during stormy weather. Some stories even claim that Naitaka would thrash its tail to create dangerous waves. Ogopogo’s home is said to have always been Squally Point, on the opposite side of Okanagan Lake from Peachland, where the water can be particularly turbulent. Legend has it that one day, Chief Timbasket and his family were traveling across Okanagan Lake near Squally Point when they disappeared. Timbasket did not believe in the lake monster, so he took no precautions, such as offering an animal to calm Naitaka. No trace of Timbasket or his family was ever found. However, it was reported that their canoe was discovered many years later, stranded in a high place above the shoreline. Early settlers also recounted sightings of a creature in Okanagan Lake.
In 1878, Susan Allison saw Naitaka from her ranch on the west side of the lake while waiting for her husband to return from a business trip. Suddenly, a storm broke out, and the waters became violently agitated. Worried about her husband, she ran to the lakeshore. There, she saw a 60-footlong creature floating motionless. Suddenly, it began swimming against the storm, picking up speed as it pushed through the wind and waves. Her husband, John Allison, did not believe her story. However, a mining superintendent, Thomas Smitheran, admitted that he had also seen the lake monster that same day. Settlers began patrolling the shores of Okanagan Lake, armed and ready to protect their families from the demon of the lake.
One day, John MacDougall, an Indigenous man, was heading to John and Susan Allison’s ranch to help with the hay harvest. He usually tossed a chicken or a pig into the lake to keep Naitaka satisfied. But that day, he forgot to bring an offering. As he crossed the lake, towing two horses behind his canoe, they were suddenly pulled underwater by an unknown force.
MacDougall’s canoe was almost dragged down as well, but he managed to cut the tow rope and paddle away quickly. His horses were never seen again. MacDougall was convinced that the lake monster had taken them.
THE LEGEND OF OGOPOGO
A NEW NAME FOR NAITAKA
In 1924, Naitaka received a new name. At a meeting of the Vancouver Board of Trade in Vernon, Bill Brimblecombe entertained the delegates by singing about the monster of Okanagan Lake. He invented new lyrics for a popular song called Ogopogo.
The next day, the Vancouver Province newspaper reported that Ogopogo was the official name of the Okanagan Lake monster. The catchy name quickly became popular, replacing the traditional Naitaka. With the name change came a shift in the perception of the monster. It was no longer seen as a terrifying creature but rather as a fun and harmless being that better suited its new name. The word Ogopogo is a palindrome, meaning it reads the same forward and backward.
THE GUARDIAN OF OKANAGAN
In the summer of 1934, Lake Okanagan shimmered under the sun like a liquid mirror. Two young couples—Henry and Margaret, along with Thomas and Evelyn—decided to spend the day rowing across its tranquil waters. Laughter filled the air as they glided across the surface. As they paddled, they noticed what appeared to be a floating log in the distance. Dark and elongated, it gently rocked with the current. Intrigued, they decided to row closer.
“What if we move it?” Thomas suggested with a mischievous grin, gripping his oar.
“It looks too big to be just a log,” Margaret murmured, a shiver running down her spine.
Ignoring her unease, Thomas struck the “log” with his paddle. At that moment, the water churned violently, and a shadowy, serpentine figure emerged. Dark, ancient eyes stared at them for a brief moment before the lake erupted into a swirling chaos.
The boat rocked as a long, scaly body plunged back into the depths. Shouts of shock filled the air. They sat frozen, watching as the creature dis-
appeared beneath the surface.
“What was that?” Evelyn whispered, her voice barely audible.
Silence settled over the lake, broken only by the gentle lapping of water against the boat. Without hesitation, they paddled frantically back to shore. Years later, when they told their story, some laughed, saying it was just a big fish or a drifting log. But they knew the truth: they had awakened the lake’s guardian. And on quiet nights, when the water is still, some say you can still see ripples forming without cause… signs that Ogopogo is still there, watching, waiting.
The Underground UFO Base
Strange sights over Lake Ontario
I’ve been debating whether to write this post for a few days, but I thought it would be worth sharing, regardless of the reservations I have.
On Tuesday night, October 12, 2007 (actually, very early Wednesday morning), I went out onto my balcony to relax before heading to bed. Instead of relaxing, I spent the next 30 minutes in a very intense state: I watched two objects floating over Lake Ontario. I’m not saying I saw aliens, but whatever I saw, it certainly wasn’t conventional aircraft.
You can start laughing at any point, and I don’t blame you. I’m skeptical of most UFO stories, and there is usually a reasonable explanation for whatever phenomenon people witness. I did some searches and found some strange videos that almost captured the exact same experience I had, though this video was filmed over six years ago.
My apartment has a fantastic view: I face west from the 24th floor of a building just west of
the CNE. While I was on my balcony, I noticed one object, then two, floating over the lake with an orange-yellow color. The main object glowed for 10 minutes, moving only slightly from side to side. It was about twice as bright as a bright star. The other object appeared out of nowhere above the first one, increasing in intensity. The first object slowly faded into the darkness of the night. The second object moved into the same area as the first and hovered for about 10 minutes. This dance repeated three times over a half-hour period.
I have a decent telescope, so I took it out to get a better look at the objects. Through the lens, the objects appeared to be just balls of light. No specific spotlight was visible. I took a few photos, but since the objects were so far away and the sky was dark, I could only capture a very cliché image. Even through the lens, I could see very little movement — just up and down and a little sideto-side, with very little depth.
By Matthew Blackett
At first, I suspected the lights were the spotlights from Porter Airlines planes coming into the island airport, but when I noticed the objects weren’t getting any closer or further away, I ruled that out. Also, the orange light they emitted was very different from those used on planes; it reminded me of fire, both in color and how it flickered (on clear nights, I can often see, without the help of a telescope, the blazing fires across the lake from Hamilton’s steel plants). I’ve observed planes at night through the telescope, and I always see some kind of reflection or shadow of the plane. But the only reflection I saw was light from the objects bouncing off the calm lake. There were no blinking lights like those typically found on planes or helicopters. Just before the last sight of the objects, both began to lose light intensity. Through the telescope, I watched one of them slowly descend toward the lake. Within a few seconds, the lights disappeared completely and submerged into Lake Ontario.
Commercial flight avoids collision with UFO
By Mystery Planet
Last Monday at 7:30 a.m. in November 2016 (E.T.), a Porter Airlines plane with 54 passengers on board was flying at 3,000 meters over Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes of North America, when something crossed its path. “The pilots noticed the object from a distance. As they got closer, they saw that it wasn’t moving and was blocking their flight path,” said a spokesperson for the regional airline. “At first, based on its shape, they thought it was a balloon, then they speculated that it could be a drone.” The pilots’ reaction to the imminent collision was to perform an evasive maneuver, which caused two flight attendants who were not seated to get injured. However, they recovered and continued with their duties. No passengers were injured, and the plane landed normally. As a precaution, the flight attendants were taken to the hospital where they were soon discharged, reports The Star.
Peter Rowntree, an investigator from the Canadian Transportation Safety Board, told the local press that at the moment, it is impossible to determine what
the unidentified flying object was. According to the pilots, it had a spherical shape and was about 3 meters in diameter. “It passed so quickly that they have no idea what that object was in the air. It was just something they were going to collide with if they didn’t perform an evasive maneuver,” said Rowntree, who added that the plane passed below the object at a distance that has yet to be determined but was “very close.”
Something more than a drone?
Despite the uncertainty in the statements from the Porter Airlines spokespersons, many media outlets quickly labeled the object as a drone, shifting the focus of the story to air safety and the danger that these unmanned aerial vehicles pose in the hands of the public. It is worth noting that Canada has long implemented laws restricting the use of drones near airports or at high altitudes. However, the only things known about the “UFO” are its shape and approximate size, along with the altitude at which it was to block the plane’s path. So, in the absence of identification, could it be something else?
Lake Ontario is the smallest of the five Great Lakes of North America, covering an area of 19,477 km². It is shared by the United States and Canada: the northern part belongs to the Canadian province of Ontario, while the southern part, where the Niagara Peninsula is located, belongs to the state of New York.
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ICONIC PLACES IN CANADA
DISCOVER THE MYSTERY AND BEAUTY OF LAKE MANITOBA
Located in the province of Manitoba, Canada, Lake Manitoba is a natural gem that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its serenity and crystal-clear waters, this lake offers a unique experience for nature and adventure lovers. However, within its waters also dwell ancient legends that have been passed down through generations, adding a touch of mystery to its charm.
Places to Stay and Eat
Accommodation: There are multiple options ranging from cozy cabins and campgrounds to nearby hotels in Portage la Prairie or Winnipeg. Cuisine: The region offers a delicious variety of local dishes, such as fresh lake fish, smoked meats, and traditional Manitoba desserts.
History and Culture
Lake Manitoba has been a key site in the history of the First Nations, who considered it sacred and full of life. For centuries, these communities lived in harmony with nature and left behind a legacy of myths and stories that still endure. One of the most intriguing tales is that of “The Hand of the Lake”, an ancient legend that speaks of a hidden presence in the lake’s depths, reminding everyone that its waters hold secrets only the brave can uncover.
Natural Attractions and Activities
tants of the Okanagan Valley told stories about a creature that lived in the lake. They de
VISIT TORONTO
The Man with the Gas Mask is one of the creepiest legends of Toronto, known for his mysterious appearance at certain spots in the city, especially in the East York district. The story has attracted tourists and curious people in search of paranormal phenomena. It is said that the man with the gas mask is a ghostly figure who appears in the shadows, especially in the East York area. The story dates back to the early 20th century, when several witnesses began reporting strange encounters with a figure wearing a gas mask, particularly on foggy nights.
Where is it located?
The most iconic place where visitors can explore this legend is the East York area, near O’Connor Street and the city’s hills. It is in these corners where the legend has endured, and some claim to have had strange encounters.
Activities Related to the Legend
Tourists can join guided nighttime tours that explore Toronto’s spookiest legends, including The Man with the
Gas Mask. Additionally, it is recommended to take a tour of the old buildings and streets of East York to experience the unique atmosphere of the area.
Tips for Visitors
If you decide to explore the legend on your own, make sure to bring a flashlight, as some areas are dark at night. Also, dress appropriately for walking on uneven terrain and bring water. If you’re a fan of the paranormal, make sure to bring a camera to try to capture something unusual.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the fall months, especially around Halloween, when the mysterious atmosphere of Toronto and its surroundings intensifies with the festivities and fog.
Where to Stay and Eat
For those interested in staying near the iconic areas of the legend, the Comfort Inn East York is a comfortable and well-located hotel. For dining, The Wren is an excellent local restaurant offering traditional Canadian dishes and is close to the exploration area.
VISIT VANCOUVER
In Vancouver, the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge is not only known for its stunning view but also for the eerie legend that surrounds the place. It is said that the bridge harbors the spirit of a woman who still walks among its wooden planks, seeking justice and peace.
In Vancouver, the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge is not only known for its stunning view but also for the eerie legend that surrounds the place. It is said that the bridge harbors the spirit of a woman who still walks among its wooden planks, seeking justice and peace.
Where is it located?
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is located in North Vancouver, in the Capilano River Regional Park. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, and as visitors cross it, they can feel the mysterious atmosphere that surrounds it.
Activities Related to the Legend
In addition to crossing the bridge, tourists can explore the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where they will find other trails such as the Treetop Walk and the Cliffwalk, which offer spectacular views and a sense of closeness to the mysterious spirit said to inhabit the place. Some guides also offer nighttime tours that delve into the history and paranormal sightings.
Tips for Visitors
If you decide to cross the bridge at night or during foggy hours, we recommend bringing a flashlight or a camera with good visibility. Although the place is safe, the atmosphere and the feeling of being in such a historic and legendary space can be unsettling.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is in the fall, especially near Halloween, when the mysterious weather and dim lighting make the atmosphere even more intense. However, the legend has been present year-round, and many visitors claim that the feeling of the paranormal is best experienced on the cold and rainy days in Vancouver.
Where to Stay and Eat
For those who wish to stay near the legend, the Capilano River RV Park is an ideal option for nature lovers. They can also choose the Lonsdale Quay Hotel, located near the bridge with easy access to major tourist attractions. As for dining, the The Cliff House restaurant within the park offers a unique culinary experience, perfect for relaxing after a day full of mystery.
STORIES BY
MY NIGHT TERROR STORIES
by nightterrorgirl, Canadá
Many people get confused about the difference between nightmares and night terrors. When I told my counselor that I would wake up seeing people in my room because I had night terrors, she gave me a weird look and said, “Do you mean nightmares?” Apparently, the exact cause of night terrors is not even known, but they are linked to stress, depression, and psychological disorders. Later, my counselor confirmed that I was, in fact, suffering from night terrors. Anyway, I thought I’d share some of my experiences and hopefully hear from others who also experience them (I have yet to meet someone who has them).
When I was a child, I used to sleepwalk (according to what my parents told me). Occasionally, I also had lucid dreams starting at the age of six, but what stuck with me the most was my first night terror (if it can be called that). When I “woke up,” there was an old man at the foot of my bed. Since I was afraid of the dark and always slept with the light on, I know it wasn’t just a trick of my eyes.
The unsettling thing about night terrors is that no matter what you see, you are immediately overwhelmed with a sense of pure terror (I guess that’s why they’re called that, haha). So, even though an old man might sound harmless, it scared me so much—plus, he was almost as tall as the ceiling. I started crying and screaming, my dad came rushing in, and he stood right next to him. I remember saying something like, “He’s
right next to you.” Later, when I grew up, my dad explained that this terrified him since he believes in the paranormal. The old man had an envelope in his hand and seemed to be trying to hand it to me, but I didn’t mention this part to my dad because the night terror started fading away. My dad and I still joke about the possibility that the envelope contained the winning lottery numbers since I told him about this part last year.
THE SHADOW IN THE HALLWAY by Nieves_17, Canadá
ng, my dad came rushing in, and he stood right next to him. I remember saying something like, “He’s right next to you.” Later, when I grew up, my dad explained that this terrified him since he believes in the paranormal.
I am currently 18 years old, but this happened when I was around 8. I was lying on the couch in the living room; behind me was the dining room, and further back, a hallway that led to the bathroom and a back room.
My mom and grandma were sitting in the living room. At one point, through the reflection of a mirror, I saw my grandma get up from her chair and head towards the back room. I got up from the couch and followed her, but when I reached the room, there was no one there. Confused, I turned back towards the living room and saw that my mom and grandma were still sitting in the same place.
Perplexed, I walked towards them, but right in front of the bathroom door, I saw a strange reflection, and suddenly, I felt something grab my shoulders and push me forcefully, making me fall to the floor.
The old man had an envelope in his hand and seemed to be trying to hand it to me, but I didn’t mention this part to my dad because the night terror started fading away. My dad and I still joke about the possibility that the envelope contained the winning lottery numbers since I told him about this part last
Alarmed, my mom asked me what was wrong, and still scared, I told her that something had pulled me. Thinking I was playing, she and my grandma laughed, but I started
crying. When they got up to check on me, they noticed I had bruises and the marks of two hands on my shoulders.
Since then, whenever I see something strange and I’m not sure what it is, I prefer to stay away.
THE CLOWN’S LAUGHTER by Mel_1993, Colombia
One night, around 1 or 2 a.m., I was about to sleep as usual, but that night was different. I was ready to rest and went to the bathroom. While I was there, I heard the laughter of clowns coming from the hallway, but I didn’t pay much attention to it.
ing, my dad came rushing in, and he stood right next to him. I remember saying something like, “He’s right next to you.” Later, when I grew up, my dad explained that this terrified him since he believes in the paranormal.
Later, already in my bed with my eyes half-closed, I heard the same laughter again, but this time much closer. I decided to get up, went to the peephole of the door, and what I saw completely traumatized me... A terrifying-looking clown was right outside. I quickly closed the door and secured it with all the locks I had before going back to sleep.
The next day, I told my parents what had happened, but they didn’t believe me at all. That trauma stayed with me, and now, every night, I must close the door without fail.
THE VOICE IN THE HALLWAY by
Ismael Conda, El Salvador
The old man had an envelope in his hand and seemed to be trying to hand it to me, but I didn’t mention this part to my dad because the night terror started fading away. My dad and I still joke about the possibility that the envelope contained the winning lottery numbers since I told him about this part last
When I was 15 or 16 years old (at that time my parents hadn’t divorced yet), I remember waking up early, getting dressed to have breakfast and go to school. My sister was doing the same in her room, while my parents were sleeping in theirs. It’s worth mentioning that the three bedrooms were connected by a
BY READERS
hallway. I was standing in front of my wardrobe putting on my tie when, suddenly, I heard a male voice with a very deep tone shouting my mom’s nickname, something like... CHINA!
I froze, trying to recognize the voice. I opened the door and stepped into the hallway, where I came face to face with my sister. We looked at each other, and she asked me:
— Did you hear that?
— What?
— That...
— The shout? The... China?
— Yes, she replied.
THE SHADOW IN THE MIRROR
By Vicky, India
I went to my parents’ room and saw both of them sleeping peacefully. I told my sister what had happened, and we both came to the conclusion that it wasn’t my dad’s voice; if he had shouted that loud with my mom right next to him, she surely would have woken up.
Hello, I’m Vicky, and I’d like to share my horror story. This happened around 2022. I was at home, completely alone, and it was around midnight. I lived in a remote village where there were rarely people. I was sitting on the couch, and behind me, there was a large mirror that reflected the entire living room.
Suddenly, I heard the doorbell. I went to check, but there was no one there. I returned to the couch, and as I lay down, I noticed a shadow in the mirror. It was of a figure that was approximately 1.70 meters tall. Seeing this, I ran to my room, which was upstairs in the house.
As I ran, I heard a whisper behind me saying, “Don’t run.” I was so scared that, at that moment, I lost consciousness. My mother arrived shortly after and found me lying on the floor, unresponsive.
The Door That Opened By Itself
by Spascucci, México
When I was around 12 years old, I was playing video games at a friend’s house. It was just him, his brother, and me. Suddenly, we saw the doorknob of his room start to turn slowly. When it finished turning, the door opened, and no one was there. My friend, completely shocked, yelled at his brother, and he answered from downstairs. Needless to say, we ran out of his house, haha!
THE ELDERLY WOMAN OF THE ABANDONED HOSPITAL
by Wickebein, Germany
Several years ago, I lived near a hospital that had been abandoned due to flooding (in Querétaro), and one could explore it freely. I had a friend who was quite scared of anything paranormal and terrifying, and one day he told me he wanted to overcome his fear. To tease him a bit, I suggested we go into the hospital on New Year’s Eve to face his fears. Surprisingly, he agreed.
So, we entered in the afternoon to do a tour in daylight and then continue exploring with flashlights at night, to help him gain some confidence. We did this several times over the course of about a week, since we had already established a route for exploring. Over time,
we started exploring other rooms outside of that route and found several abandoned files. We snooped around a bit, but found nothing of interest.
When we were heading toward the main entrance, I began to feel like I was walking alone. I stopped and turned around to check if my friends were behind me, and sure enough, they had stayed behind, very scared and hugging each other. I looked ahead to see what had frightened them, and at the entrance, I saw an elderly woman standing there, holding an umbrella inside the hospital and a soda between her legs, looking down at the floor. Suddenly, she looked up and stared at me for a while. Calmly, I smiled and said, “Good afternoon.” She greeted me back. I then passed in front of her and left the place, while my friends just ran out without saying anything.
Once outside, I scolded them and told them never to be rude to a ghost. Curious, they wanted to find out if it was truly a ghost or just another person exploring like we were, so we went back to the hospital. When we returned, the elderly woman was no longer there, and there was no trace of her. To this day, I still think it was a curious person, but I can’t deny it was strange to find someone like that in such a place. The only possible exit from there was where we had stood before going back inside. If it was a curious person, she either went deeper into the hospital or jumped over the wall we had been using, but given her apparent age, I find it unlikely that she could have done that.
Illustrated Story
the story of the month
A Close Encounter of the Third Kind
By Andrea, México
Almost 30 years ago, I had an experience that I still remember as if it had happened yesterday. I don’t recall the exact year or month, but I know I was 11 years old. Today, at 39, that event remains as vivid in my memory as it was back then.
At the time, I lived with my parents and siblings. It was just an ordinary day—I went to school, did my homework, and ended the day watching TV. I had always been fascinated by space and dreamed of becoming an astronomer to operate robots beyond Earth. My father often taught me the names of the stars and talked to me about the weather, which fueled my love for science. I would always gaze at the sky with curiosity, feeling an unexplainable attraction toward it.
On that particular day, I was watching my favorite TV shows in my parents’ bedroom since one of the televisions was there. Meanwhile, my brothers were playing Super Nintendo in the hallway where the other TV was. I remember they had just bought a game called Metroid. I was watching Are You Afraid of the Dark?, but even while focused on the screen, I was aware of my surroundings—my parents were downstairs talking to some customers (they were merchants), and my brothers were taking turns playing their game.
When my show ended, another program about UFO sightings in Mexico began. It showed a small yellow spacecraft flying over volcanoes. Suddenly, I started feeling strange—as if someone was watching me. I couldn’t understand why I felt so uneasy. I was alone, relaxed, lying in the dark with only the glow of the television illuminating the room. I tried to ignore it, but the sensation kept intensify-
ing until it turned into a chill that spread through my entire body.
I looked around the room, and that’s when I saw it.
Between the TV and a nearby table, there was a small gray being staring directly at me. It was no more than a meter tall, with a disproportionately large head and an extremely thin body. Its neck was as narrow as a thumb, and its large, slanted eyes were completely black. Its appearance was almost ethereal, like a hologram—though it was gray, it seemed slightly translucent, almost as if covered in fine scales.
Despite my young age, my first instinct was to rationalize the situation: I must have fallen asleep—this can’t be real. So I pinched myself hard, hoping to wake up. But I was wide awake.
At that moment, an indescribable terror washed over me. I wanted to scream, but I couldn’t. The most I could do was grab a small pillow beside me and hold onto it tightly.
My brothers were just a few meters away in the next room. I tried to call out to them, but my body wouldn’t move. Then, I realized something even more terrifying—suddenly, I could no longer hear them. The sound of their game had vanished. My parents’ voices were also gone. The entire house had fallen into complete silence.
Time seemed to stand still.
A thousand thoughts raced through my mind: Is this real? Is my mind creating this? Am I losing my grip on reality because I read too much about space? Then, just as suddenly as it had appeared, the being disappeared.
For a brief moment, I felt relief. But only for a few seconds. The being reappeared in the exact same spot. That was when I knew, without a doubt, that it wasn’t
my imagination. It was real.
It vanished once more, but I remained frozen, unable to move, trapped in what felt like a catatonic state—yet fully conscious. I sat there for what felt like an eternity, wondering if it would return.
Finally, I heard my brothers coming back. Apparently, they had gone out to meet some friends. They resumed their game as if nothing had happened, completely unaware of what I had just experienced.
I think at least two hours passed before I finally gathered the courage to run out of the room and tell my parents what had happened. As expected, they didn’t believe me. They said what any parent would say: You must have fallen asleep. It was just a dream.
Today, nearly 30 years later, I still can’t explain what happened that night. It was a terrifying experience that affected me for years. Throughout my childhood, I suffered from frequent night terrors and struggled to sleep. Being the only girl among my siblings, I had a bedroom of my own—but sleeping alone became unbearable.
I’ve asked myself countless times: Why did this happen to me? Of course, I’ve considered the possibility of abduction or memory erasure, but I doubt it. I was completely conscious every second of that night.
And though I’ve learned to live with it over the years, I still can’t find an explanation. I haven’t looked up at the sky since that day. And I abandoned my dream of becoming an astronomer—or anything related to space—altogether.
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We accept stories about: Extraordinary personal experiences. Encounters with the unknown or the unexplained. Tales of resilience, transformation, and overcoming challenges. Any story you believe deserves to be told.
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Credits
Academic Magazine
Capstone Project
North Island College | 2025
Program:
Communication Design
Produced by Rebeca Garcia
Directed by Claire
Supervision and Support
Professor Claire
Design
Rebeca Garcia
Content:
Copyright-free stories
Some stories are fictional, generated with AI, based on original stories
Photographs:
Copyright-free photographs
Some photographs and images are generated with artificial intelligence
