Princess Elisabeth of Hesse and by Rhine is a captivating yet often overlooked figure in European royal history. Born into an impressive lineage as the daughter of Grand Duke Louis IV of Hesse and by Rhine, granddaughter of Queen Victoria, and sister-in-law to the Romanov family, Elisabeth’s life was marked by both privilege and tragedy. Despite the personal challenges she faced, she became one of the most admired and sought-after socialites of early 20th-century Europe, celebrated for her charm and grace. However, her royal blood would eventually become her greatest threat as Russian Revolutionists were on a mission to end anyone connected to the Imperial Family.

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Georg Honauer was a man of ambition and bold confidence, living during a time when alchemy was at the height of fascination. Seizing the opportunity, he sought to impress Friedrich I, Duke of Württemberg, with his grand claim: the ability to turn ordinary metal into gold. But in his overconfidence, Georg may have miscalculated the risks—leading to a dramatic and tragic downfall. In this episode, the punishment is as fitting as it is "iron"-ic, as we explore the dark consequences of a failed alchemical dream.

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Meet Catherine of Alexandria — the brilliant, fearless, and slightly rebellious saint who gave 4th-century philosophers a run for their money. From outwitting emperors to holding her own in a debate with the greatest minds of her time, Catherine wasn’t just a pretty face (though, she probably had one of those too). One of her biggest legacies was actually having a torture device named after her. Tune in to find out why!

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