Demons at War

by P A Minyard

  The demon swung his rifle again, this time hitting Daniel’s jaw. Blood shot from his mouth as his head snapped to one side. Daniel fell to one knee. He swayed back and forth as if about to pass out, drawing the demon in closer. Then he lunged at the Confederate soldier’s legs, knocking him to the ground. He jumped on the demon’s chest and began beating him about the head and neck with his fists. Daniel could feel the demon’s chest bounce as it began to laugh.

  “I am Benedict’s personal bodyguard, and I’ve never had the pleasure of killing a Beloved,” the demon said, throwing Daniel ten feet to one side with little effort. He then rose to his feet and rushed Daniel before he could even lift his head. He yanked him from the dirt by his hair and tossed him once again.

  Daniel could barely see straight as the demon reached down and grabbed him by the throat. It was just like before; the demon’s eyes turned black as night and a wicked grin flashed across his face. Daniel couldn’t breathe, let alone think.

  “No clever last words?” the demon asked with a smirk.

  Daniel choked. He was nearly unconscious. His eyes closed as the scar opened, taking the demon’s power. His body shook from the encounter before he crashed to the ground. He fought to keep his wits about him as he crawled away from the battle. Struggling over the bodies of dead soldiers, he slowly moved back to the line of trees where he had first made his entrance. The gate was waiting, but it did not lead him to his bedroom. He found himself upon the floor near the front door of the house.

  Daniel was battered far worse than any previous encounter, and there would be no explanation for his sudden injuries. His mind clouded over as he struggled to his feet. He quietly and carefully made his way up the stairs only to pass out upon reaching the top. He tumbled backwards down the stairs and into the front foyer, unaware of the racket he caused. The family awoke to the horror of his body bloodied and seemingly broken.

  Days later, Daniel came to as Beth placed a cold cloth across his forehead. She smiled as his eyes focused on her.

  “What happened?” he asked in a low, muted tone.

  “You fell down the stairs,” she said. “The town doctor assured us that you only suffered bruises. No bones were broken.” She smiled again. “How do you feel?”

  “Woozy and very confused.” Daniel played along as if he had no idea how it had all transpired.

  “You should rest,” she answered. “I’ll get Mother. She’s been so worried.”

  “Wait,” Daniel replied. He felt he could confide in Beth; tell her the truth. “Will she believe me?” he thought. “Or will she think my mind has been scrambled by the fall?” He could see her coaxing him with an accepting look. Her eyes were so comforting, ready to take on his burdens. “I...” Daniel began.

  “What is it?” she asked.

  “Thank you for looking after me.” He let it go, not wanting to trouble her. Now was not the time. He worried his tale would frighten her.

  Beth squeezed his hand supportively, then left. He wasn’t looking forward to what was coming next. His mother was in the room before he knew it. She nervously fussed with her dress, then her hair, before even looking at Daniel.

  “Must you continue to worry my poor heart so?” she began.

  “I assure you it was not my intention.” Daniel kept his calm.

  “Then, what were your intentions wandering about the house at that hour? What were you thinking?”

  “I couldn’t sleep,” he replied. “I only wished to take a short walk in the cool night air to still my mind. I misjudged the stairs and lost my balance.”

  “For every step you take to recovery, why must you insist on taking two steps back?!” Her face was flushed with frustration.

  He could see her right hand trembling, and in that moment, knew that a simple apology wouldn’t be enough.

  “My life as a soldier is not easily left behind. Please be patient with me. Those habits are hard to break.”

  “I would ask one more thing of you,” his mother said. “Will you at least stay where I can keep a watchful eye upon you?”

  “Yes, Mother.” Daniel had a bashful look upon his face and he felt like he was 10 years old again.

  “I’ve washed your clothes,” she said with renewed spirit, “although I’m not sure I should return them to you just yet. You must be starving. I’ll bring something up right away.”

  “Please don’t trouble yourself over it. I’ve caused enough distraction.”

  “Now, now. That hour has passed, and we shall give it no more thought. I’ll be back shortly.”

  She left the room at a brisk pace but Daniel barely noticed what she said, nor did he let his eyes follow her as she left. The air in the room had shifted, disturbed momentarily when Bernard entered, and Daniel picked up on it immediately. It was like a soft breeze upon his cheek, and he wondered how he had missed it all those times before.

  “Who is Benedict?” he asked.

  “He is an ancient and powerful demon whose name is well known within the realm of evil. He is the demon that killed you,” Bernard answered as he stepped into view.

  It set Daniel on edge, even though he was aware of his guardian.

  “And does he know that I am responsible for the fall of his bodyguard?”

  “No. He is not yet aware of your existence, and it would be to your advantage to keep it thus for now,” Bernard replied.

  “Why?” Daniel shot back. “My power grows with each passing moment. I can feel it coursing through me, driving me to challenge myself. I barely took notice of the first three demons I eliminated. My body was unaffected.”

  “You still have not learned to walk,” Bernard cautioned. “You can’t even navigate a flight of stairs.”

  “Thank goodness for that!” Daniel exclaimed. “It was the perfect explanation for my injuries, was it not?”

  “You are not immortal. You could die at the hands of one of these demons as easily as you did before.” Bernard’s shoulders heaved as he breathed a great sigh. “Convenience will not always be at your disposal. The power can be most seductive, and you have not yet learned its purpose or how to control it.”

  Daniel’s shoulders heaved as well. He hadn’t considered dying again or what that would mean to his family or how it would probably crush Jonathan. He had no idea that the consequences of his rash behavior could be so severe. He was lost in thought and fidgeted with the edge of the blanket, running it through his fingers as if seeking comfort.

  “You have the ability to help those in great need,” Bernard continued, “even heal the most deadly of wounds. It’s not all about dispatching demons. There may come a time when you are asked for forgiveness.”

  “Forgiveness?” The word caught Daniel’s attention. “A demon would ask for my forgiveness?”

  “Not your forgiveness; the Father’s forgiveness. You may take a demon’s power with the intent of turning it over to the Father. You are His facilitator in that capacity; nothing more.”

  Daniel sat in silence. He turned his eyes away from Bernard as if unable to look at him. This conversation was far more troubling than battling with a demon.

  “You are doing quite well, all things considered.” Bernard walked over to the bedside as if responding to Daniel’s pensive mood swing. “Does living with your family still concern you?”

  “They are a welcome blessing,” Daniel lied. He loved his family dearly, but knew he could not keep this up. He was unsure about sharing his secret and knew he would be unable to continue the ruse regarding his condition.

  He paused, pondering his next words carefully. “I’m worried about Beth. She’s far sicker than they have told me, isn’t she?” he asked. “At times, I’ve seen a young man walking with her. She doesn’t know he’s there, but I watched as he steadied her when she faltered. He had the gentlest face I have ever seen. Is he an angel sent to lend strength to the ill?”

  “He is by far the Father’s most compassionate servant,” Bernard replied.

  “I’m ve
ry grateful for these considerations,” Daniel said, “though I doubt that I deserve them.”

  “And do you doubt that you deserve the love of your family?” Bernard asked.

  “Families are built on love,” Daniel replied.

  “And are you not a part of the Father’s family as well?” Bernard asked.

  Daniel was caught off guard.

  “It’s not a matter of what you deserve or what you have earned,” Bernard continued. “The Father’s love knows no bounds. Use the gifts you’ve been given wisely. Your power, which grows with each passing moment, allows you to vanquish evil. And your family keeps you grounded; gives you purpose. You cannot hope to fulfill your service to the Father on your own.”

  “I want to tell Beth about what’s happened to me,” Daniel said, nodding, “but I’m afraid of how it will affect her condition.”

  “Ever the protective older brother.” Bernard smiled. “There is another who holds such love for her.”

  “You can’t possibly mean Duff.”

  “He told you himself, did he not?”

  “He wrote me that letter, but... Beth has no interest in him.”

  “Do you know that for sure?” Bernard asked. “Have you ever asked her?”

  Daniel seemed amused by the question. “Duff with Beth? She’d keep him in line, that’s for sure.” A curious look crossed his face as Bernard departed, one he could not hide from Beth as she entered with a plate of food.

  “Can I get you something else?” she asked, setting the plate on the nightstand.

  “Please stay,” Daniel said after a moment’s hesitation. “I welcome your company.”

  Beth pulled the rocking chair closer to the bed and took a seat.

  “I dare say there are several young men in this town who would welcome your company.”

  “Trying to marry me off,” Beth laughed. “Really, Daniel. You sound just like Father.”

  “I was merely suggesting...”

  “That a prize such as me should not go unclaimed,” she interrupted.

  “You are no prize,” Daniel shot back in frustration.

  “So you worry that a hefty dowry is my only salvation.”

  “That’s not what I said!” Daniel’s face was flushed. “Truly, you are as exasperating as Duff. Maybe you are the perfect match for each other.”

  “Captain Duffy’s tastes are far more refined,” she countered.

  “Indeed. He aspires to only the finest, which is why he has asked permission to write to you.”

  Beth’s eyes widened as she let out a small gasp.

  “I only want your happiness,” Daniel continued. “Should I tell him that you look forward to his correspondence?”

  “Yes.” Beth swallowed hard. “Thank you, Daniel.”

  “Don’t thank me yet. You haven’t seen how he writes.”

  8

  HEADLONG

  December 21, 1862

  Dear Beth,

  I have been allowed to return to my family for the holidays. Boston is so lovely at this time of year. I wish you could see it. There are beautiful ribbons decorating trees and candles placed on windowsills waiting to be lit on Christmas Eve.

  I’m sure your days are filled with looking after that brother of yours. I think of him often and miss his company. It would be best not to share such thoughts with him as his head would probably swell that much more. Still, I have him to thank for this opportunity. I promise not to let either of you down, and swear to you that the honor in my heart is second only to the fondness I feel for you. You are an amazing young woman and I shall strive to be the man that you deserve.

  I wish that I had something witty to say to make you smile. Apparently, I lack inspiration without Daniel in earshot. Or maybe I’ve grown selfish and only wish you to smile when I am there to see it. Please save a few for me upon my return, whenever that may be.

  Give my love to your family, and may peace and happiness find their way into your hearts this holiday season.

  Yours truly,

  Gerald

  Jonathan, Joshua and Benjamin ducked in and out of the trees, pelting each other with snowballs and enjoying freedom from the confines of their homes for a while. The day was cold and clear, and the reflection of sunlight off the snow was blinding. The steam of their breath swirled from their mouths as they huffed and puffed with laughter.

  Jonathan raised his hands in surrender as the brothers pummeled him into submission, Benjamin’s throws even deadlier than Joshua’s.

  “I give up,” Jonathan called out. Between the dodging and laughing, he could barely breathe.

  “Watch him, Ben,” Joshua called out to his little brother. “He’s playing possum.”

  “No. Really,” Jonathan laughed.

  “I’d say he’s had enough,” Benjamin said confidently. He dropped the snowball he had in his hand as a show of good faith.

  “Thanks, Ben.” Jonathan was still trying to catch his breath. He moved away from the cover of the tree he was hiding behind, showing his empty hands.

  The boys settled down, slightly bent over with their hands on their knees. They were still smiling and their cheeks were red as cherries.

  “So, what did you get for Christmas?” Jonathan asked.

  “I got a new suit!” Benjamin called out, all excited. “Momma sewed it for me, and she said I could wear it to church.”

  “I got a rifle,” Joshua said. His tone was less emphatic but full of pride. “I’d take you home and show you, but I know you don’t like those things.”

  Jonathan conceded, dropping his eyes to the ground.

  “Father says I can go hunting with the men this spring now that I’ve got my own gun.”

  “I’m sure you’ll put them all to shame,” said Jonathan. “I can’t wait to hear the stories.”

  “What’d you get, Jonathan?” asked Benjamin.

  “Daniel gave me his Academy class ring. As a man of honor, I’ve earned it; at least, that’s what Daniel said.” Jonathan beamed.

  The brothers were wowed by the prospect of seeing Jonathan’s gift, maybe even holding it. They agreed that the ring was far more impressive than their presents.

  “It must be nice having Daniel home again,” Benjamin said. Jonathan’s face lit up, but nothing he could say would describe how he felt about having his brother home for the past two months.

  Weeks had passed since Daniel’s last fight with a demon, but that beating was not enough to deter him. He excused himself as he stood up from the couch and moved cautiously from the living room to the foyer under the watchful eye of his mother. He crept up the stairs at a pace that would not cause concern. But his mind was on the gate and the power that lay on the other side. He had never felt this alive; never felt so strong; never longed to throw himself headlong into danger like he did at that moment. The wounded-soldier façade was tiresome and frustrating.

  It didn’t matter that it was the middle of the day. It didn’t matter that he would have no excuse for his injuries, should he return beaten to a pulp. And at that moment it didn’t matter to Daniel if he never returned at all. It was as if Bernard’s warning had never reached his ears.

  His bedroom door clicked closed behind him, and as the gate opened, he again felt the rush he’d been waiting for. There would be a demon on the other side. Its power called to him, causing his chest to tighten and ache. Daniel crossed through the gate into one of the older lecture halls at West Point.

  The wooden floorboards were polished to a brilliant sheen, seemingly unaffected by the footsteps of eager, young cadets. And the desks were lined up in rows, side by side, touching, crowded and cramped. The colonel stood at the front with his back turned. His uniform looked new, clean and pressed, with a sash about his middle and polished sword at his side. It was just the two of them.

  “Class is in session,” the colonel said, “but I do not tolerate tardiness, Major.” The colonel now pivoted on one foot with a graceful, dance-like movement.

  Daniel
’s chest became heavier, and that made him uneasy. His body was trying to warn him of the danger he faced.

  “You are Benedict, are you not?” Daniel asked.

  “Well, at least your guardian is well informed,” Benedict said, unimpressed. “And may I ask who is misguiding your feeble efforts?” “Bernard is my guardian,” Daniel answered with resolve. “And you will find that there is nothing feeble about me.”

  The power was talking, making him even cockier than he had been in the past.

  “Bernard?” Benedict said, tipping his head from side to side as if amused by the sound of the name. “Bernard has always been so shortsighted.”

  “But I assure you I am not!” Daniel responded. Benedict’s mere presence enraged him.

  “You are no more ready to face me today than the day I killed you on that battlefield. Still, you dispatched my bodyguard with little effort. I feel that there is something ominous about this meeting.”

  “Surprised that I found you?” Daniel asked, still full of confidence.

  “I wouldn’t call it surprise,” Benedict replied. “Fortunate perhaps.

  Fortuitous — yes, that’s the word I prefer.”

  He paused as he ran the fingers of his left hand over the handle of the sword he carried.

  “Can you help me, Major?

  I tire of all the blood and anger. You of all people should be able to understand that.”

  Daniel stopped in his tracks. “What is this? Who is this demon?” he thought as he become leery of his situation. “The murderous lust is gone from his eyes.”

  “You seem different from the one who took my life.”

  “I am different,” Benedict replied. “I once marveled at the beauty of destruction. The brilliance of the Father is beyond compare. The hate that drives the human existence is most compelling. It is relentless, and I once found it as intoxicating as the power that drives you even now.”

  He closed his eyes and dropped his head.

  “But my time here is shortened by your presence. Though you cannot defeat me today, in time, your power will exceed mine. My days are numbered.”