Preface Note – This is a work of fiction; blame everything on ChatGPT Plus, version 4; Grammarly, which I highly recommend, made over 8 suggested changes and other corrections, but these were not enacted.  Royalty-Free image from my Envato Elements Subscription.

by Jane Collins

June 13, 2023

LONDON – As the world contends with the reality of our fractured reality, it is British soldiers and clergymen who are paying an ever-growing price in the fight against the forces of darkness. Serving in the Vatican’s Exorcist Army, these brave men and women are witnessing an escalating loss of comrades. This ominous trend is taking its toll on those who remain, struggling against a formidable and seemingly relentless enemy.

A report from the Coroner’s office has revealed an alarming rate of fatalities among returning servicemen. “The majority of fatalities show signs of extensive internal trauma, like their life force was extinguished abruptly,” explained Chief Coroner Elizabeth Rawlings. “It’s unlike any injuries or death causes we’re used to seeing.”

Private William O’Connor, a soldier on brief leave from the frontlines, painted a grim picture of the situation. “Every battle we fight, it seems the darkness is denser, the enemy stronger. We’re losing good people, both soldiers and priests, and it feels like we’re barely scratching the enemy,” he confessed.

Father Thomas McLaughlin, another battle-weary veteran of this unprecedented war, offered a similarly chilling perspective. “We are not merely fighting physical entities,” he said, “We’re up against pure evil, malevolent forces that defy our comprehension. Every victory costs us dearly.”

The Vatican, however, is holding firm on its stance. In a statement released earlier today, Vatican spokesperson Cardinal Giuseppe Bernardi maintained that their efforts were far from futile. “We are in the midst of a great battle, one that is not only fought on the physical plane but also in the spiritual realm,” he declared. “Each loss is a tragedy, yet each victory, however small, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. We must not waver in our resolve.”

Despite the Vatican’s assurances, the mood among the returning soldiers and clergymen is grim. The strain of this surreal war, the deaths of their comrades, and the daunting uncertainty of what lies ahead, are leaving indelible scars on their spirits.

As the world adjusts to its new, bizarre reality, the toll of human loss and suffering in this supernatural conflict is yet another grim reminder of the cost of survival. As we continue to fight these otherworldly battles, questions remain: What will the human cost be? And when, if ever, will we see an end to this darkness?