Description

Still dumbfounded by Sams remark, Chris does not see the dark creature as it slams into him at a terrible speed. Saynt falls to the earth with a great crash, his golden armor scouring across the pavement. Teeth gnashing, and claws tearing, the demon leaps on him. It tries to pry the sword from Saynts hand but is burned by the white fire. Sam yells at Saynt to stand. The Army of Helaman, previously undeterred in their vigil, now takes interest.

The Saynt stands, dazed, as the demon places a mighty blow on his chest. Saynt is knocked across the street and into the nearby building. The soldiers are yelling encouragements now. The demon screams in response. Crazed, it comes for Saynt again. This time Saynt parries the attack. The onlookers cheer. Saynt raises his mighty sword, the Word of God. It blazes with white fire. He swings at his monstrous foe but cuts only air. The demon has vanished and reappeared behind Saynt. It strikes him on the back of the helm and Saynt collapses into unconsciousness.

When Christopher Saynt wakes he sees that his guide is by his side. He is back in the material realm. Sam seems to find the entire exercise amusing. Chris doesnt share his sentiments. Sam tells Chris that, in the spirit realm, there is no danger of physical death. However it is possible, Sam explains, for Saynt to be knocked back to the physical side of existence if he is defeated in combat or placed under enough stress. Chris can only return to the spirit realm once both his faith and stamina have returned.

Chris questions Sam about his purpose. Sam does not answer and looks to a raven on a nearby tree. It is watching them. Sam suggests they find a safer place to continue their discussion. They walk to 4th south, head east, and stop at a local coffee shop.

Sam asks Chris what he thought of the bird. Chris is confused at first but then recalls thinking of Rachel, Madison and Emily. He recalls being angry about their murders. Sam cautions Chris that Lucifer will try to tempt Chris into vengeance. He reminds Chris to check his garments for staining, the manifestation of Chris's desire for retribution.

Again, Chris inquires about his role as Gods Champion. Sam tells him that the Second Coming is near. Both sides, good and evil, are battling for key souls. Souls whose efforts on earth could change the course of things to come. The Adversary is working tirelessly to trap these chosen spirits in misery, despair and sin.

It is up to Christopher to find these lost sheep, and to save them from the efforts of the Fallen One. Sam also advises Chris that he must do his work in anonymity. After all, everyone thinks Chris is dead. The police think he is a murderer. And the associates of the drug dealer who Chris killed do not think that kindly of him either.

Chris doubts his ability to carry through with the task. He is afraid. He recounts the lost battle. He tells Sam that he doesnt even know where to start. Sam tells him to start with the young woman seated behind him. Chris turns and sees the attractive blonde, seated alone. When he looks back Sam is gone.