The Bloody Benders

Greetings Traveler,

Congratulations! You have stumbled upon the final resting place of the Bloody Benders: John Sr., John Jr., Elvira, and myself, Kate.

Surely, you have heard of our exploits—we could scarcely escape them in life, so how could you not hear about them in our death?

Twenty travelers in total, that’s how much blood we have on our hands, how many spirits followed us through life. Of course, I was the only one to sense them, so they did not bother my family after they did what needed to be done. And after a while, they did not bother me, either—rather, their presence brought an odd sense of comfort, a warmth that never left me, no matter how cold it got outside.

Then our deeds were discovered, and we had to run. We had to stay undercover. No more thievery. No more murder. The warmth around me began to fade. The world is so cold without spirits to accompany you.

So, I did what had to be done.

Papa went first. He did not see it coming, and a good thing, too, because I knew that he would be the only one to fight me off. I bludgeoned him with a log.

John Jr. was next. He saw what I did to Papa, and he came at me with an axe. He did not know that I could fight, though. I wrestled the axe away from him and made quick work of him.

Mama tried to run, but it was no use. She could not run as fast as I, and she fell harder than either Papa or John Jr.

Their spirits wrapped themselves around me like one of Mama’s quilts as I buried them here, right below your feet.

I spent the rest of my days tending to their graves and digging my own. As soon as I finish writing this letter, I shall lie down in my grave and let myself fall into a forever sleep inside it. May the creatures of the desert enjoy their feast.

And may you enjoy the warmth of my spirit—it is now yours.

Forever Yours,

Kate Bender

* * *

Author’s Note: I wrote this for the unofficial challenge, The Haunted Letter Challenge. Find the link to it below.

For more information on the Bloody Benders, follow the Wikipedia link below.