by P A Minyard
He noticed a man walking briskly and tugging at a little girl; he was almost pulling her down the street.
“Sir, may I have a moment?” Daniel asked as he strode up beside them.
The little girl had tears running down her face as she tried to free her arm from the man’s grasp.
“Your daughter seems upset,” Daniel continued.
“She’s not my daughter,” the man replied. “I am trying to return her to her family.”
“And yet she seems hesitant to go with you,” Daniel replied.
“Please, sir,” the girl cried out, “I don’t know this man and I don’t want to go with him.”
“Maybe you should leave her with me,” Daniel said.
“Maybe you should mind your own business,” the man answered. The ache in Daniel’s chest continued to annoy him, and he became more forceful.
“Let go of her now,” he commanded, “or I shall turn you over to the authorities.”
“As you wish,” the man said as he dropped the girl’s arm and hurried away.
Daniel knelt down beside the girl and brushed away her tears. “Are you far from home?” he asked.
“Just a few blocks away, I think,” she said, looking back at him with her tear-soaked, green eyes.
“He didn’t hurt you, did he?”
“My leg,” she said. “It’s hard to walk.”
“May I help you?” Daniel asked. Then he turned his back to the child so she could climb on.
She looked around and then back at him, as if cautious of her surroundings.
“I’ll not harm you, I promise,” Daniel reassured her.
She climbed upon his back, wrapping her legs around his chest, allowing him to carry her down the street.
“Do you recognize the area?” he asked. “Should I go further?”
She pulled herself tighter against his back and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Union officers are so gullible,” she whispered in his ear.
Daniel could feel her choking him with a strength far exceeding that of any child. He stumbled sideways along the street and down a darkened alley, furiously trying to escape her grasp.
“You are no little girl,” he choked.
“You trust your eyes far more than they deserve.” Daniel could hear the first demon’s words in his head as he struggled to remain conscious.
“And you are already dead,” she hissed.
Daniel wedged his hand between her arms and his neck. He threw himself up against a building, hoping to weaken her grip. After several blows, the demon finally let go. He fell to the ground and tried to catch his breath. Her lip curled around a vicious smile as her eyes turned the color of brilliant sapphires. She rushed him with murderous intent. Daniel’s head tipped back and his eyes closed. The scar opened; the flash of blue light like lightning. Her body disappeared just before it would have slammed into Daniel.
He tried to shake off the encounter, still laboring to breathe. He could feel the fever overtake him and began to vomit. This time, the episode only lasted for a short while. Daniel could feel the beads of sweat dripping from his forehead as he pushed himself upright. The gate reopened and he was able to walk through into his bedroom this time. He was weary and light-headed. He threw his coat onto the rocking chair and left his boots and pants strewn across the floor before crawling under the covers.
None at the breakfast table were surprised at Daniel’s absence. All were convinced that his trip to the foundry was to blame. Mrs. Parker waited to give voice to her thoughts until only she and Mr. Parker remained in the kitchen.
“I worry for Daniel’s health,” she said as she pulled a chair next to Mr. Parker at the table and took a seat. “Maybe we shouldn’t allow him to exert himself.”
“I know what you’re getting at,” Mr. Parker replied. “It’s hard to watch our boy struggle. But I admire how he tries to overcome this obstacle.” He looked lovingly at his wife. “Where’s the harm in a few more hours of sleep?”
“I’m not questioning his resolve,” she answered. “I just feel that a slower approach now would speed his recovery.”
“Dare we run the risk of dampening his spirit?” Mr. Parker asked. “Let him push. He’s a man now, and I believe he knows his limitations. I don’t want to be the one to tell him ‘No’.”
“And what if he can’t keep up with his expectations? Couldn’t that also lead to disappointment? He used to be more cautious than this. It’s that caution that has always stayed my concerns.”
“Mother, you would find concern if he stayed a fixture in that rocking chair in his room.”
“As would you, Father,” she replied.
Beth and Duff walked along the streets of town. The sun escorted them as they enjoyed the pleasant fall day. No need for scarves or gloves, Beth’s long, wool coat was more than enough to keep her warm, and Duff looked dapper in his uniform. They took their time, peering through the windows on occasion. Duff would be leaving for Philadelphia soon, where he would be reassigned to a new regiment. He was hoping to leave while the weather was still favorable, before snow could hamper his travels.
“Tell me again how you met Daniel,” Beth said.
“We were studying military tactics and found ourselves on opposite sides of the discussion,” he said.
“And were you right?” Beth asked.
“We were both right, but I felt that I was more right. Your brother’s fists convinced me otherwise later that day,” Duff laughed.
She smiled as they continued down the street, catching the attention of onlookers and those who walked by.
“This all must seem so provincial to you,” Beth said. “Nothing like the big-city life you are used to.”
“Not at all,” Duff answered. “I rather fancy a life in a smaller town such as this.”
“Really,” Beth said, unconvinced. “And what would that life be?”
“Daniel and I could help your father down at the foundry. I’d build a house just outside of town and fill it with children, of course.” He stopped walking and turned to look at Beth. “But none of that could happen without a fine woman at my side.”
Beth sighed, and for a brief moment, she thought of just such a life with Duff as her husband. She could see their children happily playing on the front porch as she worked on a quilt spread out across her lap. Duff would come out, sleeves rolled up, set to mend the fence, only to be diverted to frivolity at the merry cries of the young ones. But she let it pass from her mind as quickly as it came.
“My brother has warned me about you,” she said.
“And I was warned as well,” Duff said, beginning to blush.
Beth started to walk again, knowing full well that the entertainment was about to begin.
“And what would a gentleman such as you do with something ordinary at your side?” she teased. “I would think that you’d prefer a shinier bauble hanging from your arm.”
“The shine would only last so long, and I would probably tire of its luster anyway.”
“You are quite adept at this game,” Beth replied. “It’s as if you’ve played it before.”
“But rarely do I meet such a skilled opponent.”
“Skilled opponent? Is this the part where I become overwhelmed by your charms and swoon?”
“Know that I would catch you and keep you from harm’s way.”
“And how many others have you caught?” Beth chided.
“Not so many as you think.” Duff swallowed hard.
“Captain Duffy, if I didn’t know better, I’d say you’re sincere.” Beth blushed. “Is the prize you cannot have that much more attractive?”
“Please, call me Gerald.” He stumbled over the words, causing Beth to hold her response. “Your brother must think that I’m a cad and has told you so as well.”
“You are my brother’s most trusted friend,” Beth said. She stopped walking, placed her hand upon Duff’s arm and looked him straight in the eyes. “He cares for you like no other. But his love
for his sister compels his protective nature.”
“My frivolous behavior sets him on edge,” Duff said, and smiled. “Do you think a man can change?”
“I think we can continue this conversation when the war has ended, and you are more of a mind to such an earnest distraction.” Beth tugged at his arm, encouraging him to continue their stroll.
7
STAY THE COURSE
December 1, 1862
Dear Daniel,
I’m sure you are as shocked to receive this letter as I am to write it. We both know writing was never my strong suit. I hope it does not contribute to your already-weakened state. They have deemed me fit to return to duty, yet are holding my reassignment for the time being. Apparently, they hesitate to place me somewhere without your watchful eye upon me. Or so it seems to me.
Please thank your mother once again for her fine hospitality. The memories will not soon fade and will give me something to look forward to when next I return.
With that in mind, I must ask you something. Were I more of a man, I would have approached you before I left. I wish permission to write to your sister, Beth.
You’re well aware of my history with women, and I admit that my behavior in the past could be labeled as scandalous, but I’ve no intention of playing such games with your sister. I know that you are protective of her and rightfully so. But she is a woman capable of putting me in my place. Never have I seen such strength in the fairer sex. I assure you that there is nothing but honor in my heart. It would mean the world to me if you would let her know this as well.
I hope that she is willing to receive my correspondence and will look to your next letter for approval.
Your brother in arms,
Duff
Daniel folded the letter and tucked it into his left shirt pocket. He was sitting near the fire downstairs, waiting for Jonathan. He had promised to show him some fighting techniques and that day was as good a day as any. A light snow had dusted the ground, catching the sunlight on occasion like brilliant crystals spread across the lawn. The early winter brought serenity, and the home front seemed finally at peace. Even Beth’s health appeared to improve with Daniel in the house. His father held fast to his diligence at the foundry. There were other sons yet to return, and he found reason to stick to his efforts so other fathers could know his own joy. And his mother couldn’t have been happier to have her boys eating her out of house and home.
There was no school that day, and Jonathan could not contain his excitement. He skipped a few steps coming down the stairs, practically jumping from the top. There was no missing his entrance into the foyer with all the commotion he caused. Daniel could only smile at his little brother’s enthusiasm. He stood up from the couch and threw on his jacket as he met Jonathan in the foyer. They’d have to find a reasonable excuse to wander off that day. His mother had become overly protective, and escaping her watchful eye was no easy task. They almost made it out the back door.
“Not enough trouble around the house this morning for you two?” his mother asked, catching them by surprise. Jonathan stopped and his shoulders hunched. He was afraid to turn and face her.
“Jonathan is convinced that he has found the perfect Christmas tree,” Daniel answered, without missing a beat. “He wishes to show it to me.”
Jonathan shot a sideways glance at his brother, amazed at how calmly he covered for them.
“I promise we won’t be gone long.”
“And do you promise that neither one of you will get hurt?” she asked.
Daniel smiled, not surprised that the little ruse had failed. He placed his hand on Jonathan’s back, pushing him out the door before his mother could protest any further.
“You think she knows?” Jonathan asked as they walked away.
“I think we needn’t bother trying to fool her,” Daniel laughed.
They went a short distance from the property, far enough to escape a concerned onlooker. There was a small clearing about 100 yards from the house where they often played as children and it was the perfect arena for the pugilistic display. The snow was not so thick as to slow their motions, and the brothers were energized by the crisp December air.
“Show me your stance,” Daniel said.
Jonathan faced his brother with his feet slightly apart and both arms up in front of him, his hands rolled into fists. Daniel turned Jonathan slightly to the side and motioned for him to widen his stance and bend his knees so his left foot was leading his right. He pulled Jonathan’s right fist down and his left fist higher to form his guard.
“You’ll want your weight more on the right foot,” Daniel said. “That way, you can lean into the punch with your right hand. Lay your thumb across your fingers, not along the side, or else you risk breaking your hand. Like this.” Daniel made a proper fist with his hand showing it to Jonathan.
He nodded and then took his stance. Jonathan looked down at his position and then back at Daniel, who was holding out his left hand with his palm facing forward.
“Punch my hand as hard as you can,” Daniel said.
Jonathan hesitated.
“Come on,” he encouraged. “You won’t hurt me.”
Jonathan bit his lip, then lunged with all his might. Daniel grabbed the sleeve of Jonathan’s coat and using his own momentum against him, threw him into the snow. Jonathan rolled over and looked back at his brother.
“Never underestimate your opponent,” Daniel smiled, “or think you know his next move.” He motioned for Jonathan to rise and try again. “I’ll fight fair this time.”
Jonathan took his stance, and focusing on his brother’s hand, struck it as hard as he could. Daniel’s hand never wavered or even flinched, which caught them both by surprise.
“I’m not as strong as you,” Jonathan said in disappointment. Daniel didn’t know what to say. The punch was indeed hard, yet he couldn’t explain why it failed to move his hand; at least, he couldn’t explain it to Jonathan.
“Don’t get discouraged,” Daniel answered. “Try again. Use your weight; don’t just hit with your arm.”
Jonathan took a deep breath and paused. He thought about where to aim his fist and how to move his body in one fluid motion. He took his stance, then tried to step into the blow as he moved his right arm forward. He slipped in the snow and landed his punch on Daniel’s chest. Jonathan pulled his arm back immediately as the pain radiated to his shoulder. It was as though he struck a wall. But even more curious was that Daniel never moved or winced at the blow.
“Are you hurt?” Daniel asked.
Jonathan shook out his hand, his eyes full of disbelief.
“I think that’s enough for today,” Daniel said. He reached for Jonathan’s hand. He looked it over and thought it would probably bruise but could not see any signs of a break. He bent down and scooped up some snow to hold against his brother’s knuckles. He could see that Jonathan was still shaken.
Daniel kept silent as he continued to hold his little brother’s hand. He could feel Jonathan’s apprehension and his fear. Jonathan just stared at him, barely seeming to breathe.
“Should I tell him?” Daniel thought. “How can I? Look at him. He’s already frightened beyond words. What would he think of me if he knew?”
He motioned for them to return to the house and said nothing on their way back. He stopped Jonathan just before they went in.
“There is no greater strength or courage than to throw yourself into danger on another’s behalf,” Daniel said, and placed his hand against the back of his brother’s neck.
Jonathan looked up at Daniel with such gratitude. No finer a compliment had ever been paid to him. It meant that much more coming from his older brother.
Later that evening, Daniel paced anxiously back and forth behind his bedroom door. It had been weeks since his last encounter with the demon that disguised itself as a little girl, and he longed to test his newfound strength. He found it harder and harder to feign injury. The power coursing through him was undeniabl
e. He stopped just short of his bedroom door and stood before it clenching and unclenching his fists, the desire for battle his only thought. Patience and caution were long gone. His heart was racing with anticipation, and when the gate finally opened, Daniel felt as though he had willed it.
He crossed through and was standing among a short row of trees lining an open field where a battle raged. The air was thick with smoke and the stench of death. The midday sun shone down upon the scene. It was clear that the armies had been fighting since early morning, and Daniel could tell they were running short of ammo. The men were now engaged in hand-to-hand combat, using their rifles as bludgeoning weapons.
Daniel’s chest tightened. He knew the signal; there was a demon nearby. More precisely, there were demons on both sides of the field. He jumped into the fray, pulling a hatchet from the back of a fallen soldier that lay on the ground. He could sense the overwhelming terror in the men as they hacked and clawed at each other. The demons were side by side with the men, feeding on the chaos, inciting frenzy, and they were intoxicated by it. Daniel pushed past the men, swinging the hatchet above his head and into the reach of an unsuspecting demon. Before it could react, Daniel’s scar opened and closed, taking the demon’s power. Daniel felt no ill effects and continued to move amid the battle. He was barely noticed by those around him fighting for their survival. He came upon two more demons and quickly dispatched them without arousing suspicion. The power fed his ego, causing him to lose focus temporarily and ignore the danger closing in on him.
He was knocked to the ground from behind; it was a blow unlike any other. Daniel saw stars as he pushed himself up from the indentation his body had left in the earth. He turned to find a demon in the guise of a muscular Confederate soldier foaming at the mouth with rage.
“Not very popular with the ladies, are you?” Daniel quipped. “No manners whatsoever.” He rose to his feet. His cocky comment was unwelcome.
The demon fiercely struck him with the butt of his rifle and Daniel doubled over.
“You insolent worm,” the demon growled. “Do you have any idea who I am?”
“I’m sure you won’t let me leave without telling me,” Daniel shot back as he tried to straighten up.