I could hardly believe it. The fighting had ended, and somehow, we were still alive. Unlike at Coldfoot, this time the Army had come with sufficient force to seriously kick some demon butt. Simultaneously surprised, relieved, and overjoyed, I couldn't remember ever feeling so intensely alive.

But I instantly forgot the battle when my husband grabbed me in his arms and hugged me so tight I could barely breathe. "Tell me you're okay!" he pleaded. His voice was shaky with fear and a ...