Appeared in: Season 2, Episode 9 - "Firewalker" There were a number of times that The X-Files went smaller, rather than larger, in regards to its creatures - and to be honest, the silicon based life forms encountered in the second season's "Firewalker" weren't exactly "creatures" per se - but they were creepy. Uncovered by a research team exploring an active volcano, the parasitic life form infected a host by way of spores (we'll get to those in a moment) and eventually reproduced via a growth that burst forth from the victim's neck - very much a nod to the chest-burster of Alien fame. That growth would erupt and release a cloud of spores to spread the life form to new hosts. As with the Arctic worms of "Ice", the parasites changed the personality of their hosts, with the aim of furthering their own survival and the propagation of the species. The entire creep factor of a foreign body, a mindless parasite almost plant-like in nature taking control and later ripping through your flesh was heightened by the horrified reaction of the research crew exploring the volcano, all of whom were infected and deep down, despite being influenced by the parasites, aware that they were doomed - but unable to overcome the need to continue the cycle of life initiated by the release of the spores.
Primarily covering the sport of MMA from Ontario, Canada, Jay Anderson has been writing for various publications covering sports, technology, and pop culture since 2001. Jay holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Guelph, and a Certificate in Leadership Skills from Humber College.
