THE GHOST AND THE EARTHBOUND DEMONS

DEMONS IN CHURCH

The island of Eldo was populated by the first and dominant Irish settlers, then the Muslim settlers from Asia, and later by African traditional worshipers. Yet, despite the fusion of different religions and personalities, Eldo's settlers believe in living and letting others live. 

A few months ago, the peace of the whole island was shattered by the murder of a nineteen-year-old student of Anderson College. Investigations were made, suspects were arrested and a trial began. Finally, all the suspects were discharged and acquitted as a result of lack of evidence, and Terry's case was swept under the carpet.

Kaul was among the earthbound demons that ruled the earth for five thousand years before they were cast into a ghoul. Today, the memories of his glorious days flashed through his mind as he barreled down the pulsating corridor at a quickened pace. The apartment was a mess, but getting good accommodation in this neighborhood was sheer hell. Why on earth would they choose this old abandoned church in the first place?  

Abba Church was well-illuminated even at this time of the night. Orange lamps buzzed high overhead, throwing ominous shadows across the whole arena. The ground was littered with bottles and cans that were soon swept into garbage drifts. 

Moments later, Kaul appeared inside a large hall that was filled to the brim with lots of ugly-looking spirits, hopped into a gloomy alcove, and pulled out a black mobile phone from the folds of his silky caftan. 

Lovely little thing. All shiny and impressive. Lucifer had run him a pair of them. Top secret. Not even Sameal knew about them. Devious admittedly. But he was, after all, a demon. 

There were no numbers on the phone pad. Just some function buttons. This was a private line. There was only one person he'd ever called. His wary fingers hovered over the pad for a moment, then pressed. He had no option. 

After a few rings, the call was accepted from the other side of the line. 

"Sì?

"Klaus Here."

"I know, now go straight to the point."

"Everything was going according to plan."

"Good to hear. Where are you?"

 "We have taken possession of a church at the end of a village called Eldo."

A kind of growl was heard from the other side of the call. 

"Demons in a church. Quite catchy. Mind telling me why you lodged in a church?"

"No decent place around. Besides, this is the last place anyone can search for us."

"I think you are right. How about the rest of the demons with you?"

"They were all losing their minds. We need a leader, Lucifer-san. These bunches of mannerless minions don't do well in the absence of a boss."

"You need a leader?" the voice asked back. "You are the one in control, Kaul. How long did I have to remind you of that?"

Klaus sighed. How on earth did he end up as the leader of all these demons?

"You are the only one who has escaped to earth on several occasions, and I'm sure you are up-to-date with their inventions and technology. Who in hell is qualified to lead my warriors except you?

It was a rhetorical question and didn't demand a response, so Kaul's tongue remained tied as he stared at the phone in his hand. 

"Are you sure you are up to the task? This is an important mission mistake, Kaul. Because if you do-."

"No mistake, Lucifer-san."

"Good. I'm glad we understand each other perfectly. Wait for further instructions. I will get back to you as soon as possible."

Kaul disconnected the call and frowned. This minion was not used to waiting or being idle. They were going restless every minute and Kaul feared they were on the edge of revolting. But the master said they should wait, and that was what they were bound to do. Lucifer helps anyone who dares go against his wish. 

Kaul's erratic breathing heart takes some time to cool down. Talking to the lord of hell always makes him feel like this.  Kaul's eyes roamed the large church and then fell on the image on the wall. Angels slaughtering demons with their shining swords. Damn, repulsive! Even for an image. 

Kaul hated to complain, but he had a right to. The whole evening had been a disaster. And if not for his timely intervention, the spirits would have gorged themselves on every available human they could lay their hands on. This will reveal their presence. That must not happen. They need to remain hidden until the master says otherwise. Kaul knew something big was about to happen, and wished he had an idea of what this was all about. But knowing Lucifer for who he was, Kaul knew better than to ask. Lucifer trusts no one, and he will only make known his plan when he chooses. 

"Kaul-San."

Kaul turned towards the source of the voice. It was his second in command. A horrid-looking spirit.

"Yes, Ale."

"I was told you asked of me."

"Sì. Our comrades. How are they doing?"

"Not bad, Kaul-san. Though I doubt we can keep them restless for a longer time."

Kaul nodded his head. He was getting restless as well, and he wouldn't mind haunting some humans. If only for fun's sake.

"Have you contacted Lucifer-san?"

"Yes, Ale. We were told to remain hidden until further notice."

Ale shrugged. He has no problem with waiting. Unlike the rest of the minions. 

Kaul sniffed hesitantly.  There is something special about this church, and he can feel it in the air.  Something familiar. 

"It's the scent of misery. Un vent de tristesse," Ale, who had fixed his eyes on Kaul, mumbled. 

Kaul whistles softly. That must have been what attracted them to this church in the first place. Here, a lot of evil had taken place, and the smell still lingers on until today. Kaul could feel it, the smell of blood, and tears, and sickness, and death. 

Whatever happened here in the past, Kaul was afraid it had to do with their reason for coming to earth. Lodging in this church wasn't a coincidence after all. 

Blue and Shrek were among the earthbound demons that invaded Earth thousands of years ago. Known for their agility and inability to remain in a place for a longer time, Blue and Shrek were soon seen sneaking out of their abode.

"Let's go haunting," Blue whispered into his comrade's ear. 

"Sound amazing. I'm tired of being locked up. Did your GPS pick any suitable prey?"

Blue displayed a horrific-looking set of brown teeth and a forged tongue. "Yes, a murderer lives close by. Let's go visit him."

Nothing makes Blue and Shrek happier than the thought of haunting. Thousands of years ago, humans betrayed them. And since then, they have vowed to always haunt them with great pleasure.