Mr Gray’s Encounter!

He had always been fascinated with ancient buildings

especially quaint country churches

often travelling a long way to explore their structures

and delve into the historic facts

on one such adventurous journey to the countryside

his sanity he would have to decide!

 

Cycling by his attention was drawn to a church spire

he had not seen many like it

surrounded by a neat graveyard headstones in rows

musing a nice place to be buried

he even saw the priest standing by the entrance gate

then walking up the path as if late.

 

As Mr Gray approached the path he had gone inside

thinking he must speak to him later

stood back to really view the magnificent structure

and absorb the unique atmosphere

the smell of freshly cut hay enhancing his experience

he sat with no interference.

 

The bench had a plaque which read in memory of Joan

the rest of the writing had faded

Relaxed nearly fell asleep heard the noise of a door catch

that was being turned behind him

taking little notice expecting the priest to slowly pass by

nobody came he questioned why?

 

After awhile curiosity made him get up and venture inside

it was rather dark as he expected

sunlight beamed in through a large stained glassed window

over the altar in front of him

then again he saw the priest this time kneeling in prayer

of him did not seem aware!

 

So not to disturb him took a closer look at paintings

and read booklets on the history

eventually finding himself being drawn to the altar

the priest was no longer there

he certainly had not seen nor heard anybody leave

but he was not alone he did believe!

 

A deep sense of foreboding now overwhelmed him

his skin burned down his back

like claws were ripping his flesh the agony increased

and the smell of decay immense

around his body two bony hands with strips of skin

crushing his organs within!

 

Crying out for god’s mercy to save his eternal soul

in agony and despair blacked out

he awoke sitting on a pew facing the altar icy cold

staggering headed for the door

going into a shadow filled and  warm summers night

even his bicycle a wonderful sight!

 

How he got back to the guest house could not recall

needing medical help for his wounds

soon seeking answers for his most strange encounter

enquired about the village priest

local people said he had died twelve months before

nobody worshipped there any more!

 

Found dead ripped to shreds laying across the altar

it was thought devils work

what had attacked him while within this holy church

what other forces had entered

leaving with more questions than answers to ponder

something beside him did wander!

 

Mr Gray’s encounter was far from over for him!

 

The Foureyed Poet.

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