March of the Succubus - (Chapter 8) The Highbourne

Lord Nesh stood there dumbfounded. Had the romours been true? Had Lord Phillip and the MoonGLades not fallen at the gates of their own castle back at the south? No... there was something wrong about them.

He stepped forward, a safe distance away from the nearest Moonglade.

'Phillip? Is that you?' he asked.

Lord Phillip just stared blankly at him, emotionless.

'Phillip? Are you alright? I heard that your men perished at the South castle! How did ... How did you survive?'

Phillip remained motionless. This irritated Lord Nesh.

'Look, Phillip, I know we started out on the wrong foot. How about we form an alliance? Didn't you see the demons that just attacked us? I need your help, Phillip.' He was right. The men he had left were less than a fraction of the twenty thousand he had brought from the orth County. He needed all the help he can muster. Even if it was from Phillip.

Phillip continued to just stand there. Gazing at Lord Nesh. Then, he moved. Slowly at first, then with a quick jerk, reached for his revolver, aimed it at Lord Nesh, and fired.

Lord Nesh avoided the shot in time for another. His men drew thier swords.

'So you choose to attack us instead huh? I knew you were a traitor! What have the demons ofered you, you knave!'

'WRETCHED MORTAL!'

The voice that emerged from within Lord Phillip freaked Lord Nesh out. It was Lord Phillip's egoistic signature of a voice, that harsh, rough, unkind attribute only the Lord of the South possesed. But, there was another voice speaking as well, and... it sounded... feminine.

'I SERVE NO ONE BUT THE HIGHBOURNE! NOW MORTAL, KNEEL OR YOU SHALL PAY THE PRICE OF ETERNAL SUFFERING!'

'Your mad! Your Lord Phillip, are you not! You're dead, man! Dead! Who are you! What have you done with Phillip!'

This time, Lord Phillip smiled. This creeped Nesh out.

'LORD PHILLIP IS NO MORE! ONLY THE HIGHBOURNE IS OUR MASTER! NOW... KNEEL BEFORE HIS WRATH!'

General Siow stood forward, sabre in hand. 'We kneel to no one, demon. Human or wretched ghouls alike.' Chern Chiang, Olaf and Major Karth did the same.

In an instance, the entire army of MoonGlades drew thier blades in coherence. Lord Phillip remained standing before Lord Nesh, who was clearly mystified. But, he got himself together.

'Its obvious now, eh? You're not Phillip! I do not care what you tranform into demon! Prepare yourselves! The House of Nesh is not a force to be reckoned with!' with that, drew his sword as well.

'Lord Phillip taunted 'LET'S SEE... FIVE HUNDRED OF YOUR MEN, AGAINST A THOUSAND MOONGLADES... INTERESTING...'

Genral Siow had never fought a MoonGlade before, but legend has it that they were the most skilled in the whole of the Middle Kingdom. He had to be cautious. Besides, they were outnumbered two to one. He tried to identify some weakness within the MoonGlades formation, but the effort was in vain.

Lord Nesh did not let his gaze off Lord Phillip. This was impossible. He had heard that he was dead. But now... He and his entire army was before him, and they seemed to be on the demon's side. Willingly or unwillingly, he hadn't time to find out. He knew there was no escape. They had to fight on.

Suddenly, a MoonGlade dashed forward. His agility was ferocious, and within a fraction of a second was already beside one of the soldiers in front of Lord Nesh. The soldier raised his sword, but in one slash, the MoonGlade slashed the poor soldier to the ground. His sword had not even reached the ground before he struck again, and again, and again. Within seconds, The guards surrounding Lord Nesh had fallen. The MoonGLade pointed his sword at Lord Nesh's throat. He was fast..... too fast..... They didn't even had time to react. So this must be skill of the MoonGlades. Three MoonGlade archers climbed up the castle walls, and had thier bowed aimed at the Lord.

'NOW, SURRENDER, OR YOUR DEAR LORD GETS IT!'

General Siow raised his hammer, but Major Karth stopped him.

Lord Phillip smiled, and his voice change to human. 'Just as I thought. Now, bring him to...'

There was a thunderous clap, and the three archers were burnt to bits. The MoonGlade had turned to look for only a second, before the sword in his hand was disarmed, and then, without warning, penetrated through his own chest. Blood oozed out. The MoonGlade was wide eyed, the last thing he saw was Lord Nesh standing perfectly still, purple lightning charging out of his palms.

Lord Phillip cursed. 'How'd....'

Major Karth raised his hammer this time. 'Don't ever underestimate his lordship!' Then, with one heavy slam, smashed it into the ground. The groundbeneath them shook violently, and several MoonGlades fell, thier swords and shields disarmed. Before they could recover from the fall, the Old Major shouted, 'To arms! Charge!'

Nesh's soldiers marched forward, fighting gallantly against the skilled MoonGlades. Lord Phillip remained where he was, unmoving still, then disspaeared into the shaows. His gaze was still upon Lord Nesh, who tossed two MoonGlades up with his barehands, and crushed thier skulls as they hit the ground. The fabled strength of Lord Nesh was all to true. The massive Lord pummeled through dozens of MoonGlades, sending them flying in all directions. Those who came too close, Chern Chiang took out, each shot hititing between the eyes, killing the MoonGlades on the spot. The young sniper reloaded quickly, firing almost three shots in a second, and with accuracy that was too impressive. But the MoonGlades's armour proved to be strong, and within seconds, what was left of the sniper battalion were wasted, leaving only three sipers and the Seargent to fend for themselves. Just as the MoonGlades killed the last sniper, thunderbolts struck them from the back.

Chern Chiang looked up, and Olaf stood towering before him.

'Thank you,' he said.

The general smiled, and gave the young seargent a hand. Just then, the seargent spotted an archer, from a distnace, his bow aimed directly at Olaf's heart.

'Get down!' he shouted, pushing the massive general down on the ground, Gondar flying off his grip. The arrow caught Chern Chiang right between his chest, and he groaned in pain, clutching his chest with both hands before falling to the ground.

Major Karth screamed 'Nooo!' The Old Major raised his hammer again, and this time, threw it towards the archer, who had the bow aimed at Olaf the second time, knocking him square off the castle wall with a huge explosion of white and yellow sparks. The MoonGlades saw the unarmed Major, and turned thier attention towards him, only to see purple lightning charring their comrades. Lord Nesh pummled the ground again and again, pruple thunder casting its bolts in every direction, releasing its wrath unto the MoonGlades.

Chern Chiang laid there, and looked at Olaf one last time, before his emotions went blank. Olaf was furious at the death of his friend. he tried to reach for his hammer, but a MoonGlade kicked it aside, eager to continue this game of cat and mouse. he was completely surrounded by at least twelve of them now. Without Gondar, he had to rely on what he knew best. Breaking bones. The General was exhausted, but his spirit was not faultering. Not yet at least. Around him, battlecries filled the air, as Nesh's forces engaged the MoonGlades, blood spilling in all directions.

Lord Phillip viewed the escapade from the safety of the towers. He was worried now. The Nesh's footsoldiers were a breeze, but the heroes that were protecting the Lord of the North proved to be a little more than he had bargained for. One had fallen, but there was still the old one, the strong one, and one... especially that one...

General Siow swirled his sword, his calm air and amazingly cooled aura seemingly impossible, especailly for one who was supposedly outnumber. He ready to engage more of the MoonGlades. Beside the general, countless bodies of the knights that were fabled for thier swordmenship lay death before his feet. Even those in front of him were backing towards the wall. Two MoonGlades went for another strike. Siow dodged the attacks with ease, then sliced them flawlessly, one in the knees and the other through his stomach. He raised sword again, and painlessly finsihed off the fallen soldiers. He was ready for more, when the sound of galloping caught his attention. The galloping was so faint, that through experience, the horses had to be far away. But when he turned around, three MoonGlades on horseback were seconds away from where he stood, pike in hand. The horses that brought them were dark, their hooves barely touching the ground. The Dark Nights.

Olaf fought the first two MoonGlades, barehand, crushing thier skulls and then arming himself with their blades. The MoonGlades surrounded him, and continously struck from all directions. That tired the General, but he managed to kill another and dodged another attack, before he slammed his fist into the ground, causing the other MoonGlades to tumble. He raced towards his hammer, dodging more attacks. One of the MoonGlades managed to slice his left arm, but he forced his way through the sea of soldiers, finally reaching his hammer. He picked it up, and turned his back to face the other soldiers. What he didn't hear were the faint galloping of horses, and then, the sharp pain as a pike was thrusted straight into his chest, the sharp tip coming out the other end. Blood streamed from his mouth. He struggled to stay on his feet, but soon, he was kneeling, his hammer on the ground for support. The MoonGlades edged forward, raising thier swords to finish him off, when the general mustered the rest of his strength, and with all his might, snapped the pike in two, and tugged the rider off the horse. He raised his hammer, and smahed the riders face like a pancake. Then, he raised his hammer high in the air again. The MoonGlades had seen that stance before, and with one swift move, ten blades were thrusted through Olaf's flesh. The general was stoned. He tried desperately to slam the ground, but the pain was too excruciating. The last thing he saw were two more horses coming his way, and the feeling of two more pikes into his body.

General Siow stooped low, managing to dodge the pikes. But then, he heard a loud scream. A scream of agony. Major Karth had a spear run through him, its tip barely reaching a stunned Lord Nesh, who had his back turned. General Siow's world came crashing down, just as the three riders came back for another strike. The General clenched his fists, and as the pikes neared him, he caught hold of all three without turning his back, and tugged them off the horses. Once on the ground, he raised his sword, and sliced the riders' neck with one clean slash. He ran across the field to get to the fallen Major and the struggling Lord Nesh, who was outnumbered. They both were. He slashed furiously at the coming MoonGlades, but there were too many of them. He tried to see, but the sea of soldiers in front of him made it impossible. For that moment, time seemed to freeze. One moment, he saw the Lord trashing his way, sending MoonGlades into the air. Then, one of the MoonGlades caught hold of him, then another, and another, before he was immobile. Then, the worst happened. The faint galloping of the horses was audible. General Siow fought violently now, desperate to get to the Lord, He thrust his blade across and swirled it at any coming MoonGlade. He was in a frenzy, killing three to four at a time. His heart was thumping, hoping that Lord Nesh could hang in a little longer. Those he did not have time to kill with his word, he killed his his fists, then he sliced again, slashing his way through. He could see the Lord ahead now, pinned down by the MoonGlades. Lord Nesh finally powered through, tossing the MoonGlades that held him away. General Siow managed to kill a couple more, before he was just two men away from the Lord. He raised his sword for the final blows, eager to reach Lord Nesh in time, only to see Lord Nesh too busy keeping the soldiers at his front, he did not notice the three pikes from his back, stabbing him all the way through. He winced, but managed to pull them out, only to feel another three more, then five, then ten more spears through him. The mighty Lord flinched with each spear, fresh blood oozed out of the wounds, but the massive Lord still managed to toss his assailants a distance away. General Siow powered forward, and saved his Lord and Master from another further strike in the nick of time. The Lord raised his fists in all the havoc and confusion, and slammed the ground hard, this time causing it to tremour and shake, and finally creating a huge crack. The MoonGlades fell right in, and Lord Nesh, accompanied by General Siow took the opportunity and made a run for it, deep within the safety of the shadows of Norshire Forest.

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The Prince could not believe what he just heard.

'Then let us make haste! I believe I can make it to the River Macedona in three days, if I leave by sunset.....'

Halo shook his head. 'No. I came here to let you know that you are not to follow your uncle's orders any longer.'

Prince Wai Kit stared at the general. In an instant, he drew his sword and pointed its tip at the old general.

'Is this trechery, old friend!? I will never turn my back against my own country, even if it were you who...'

The general merely smiled. 'Keep that away, young Prince, and hear me out. If I had wanted to rebel against my own country, I not have wasted my time and galloped halfway across the Middle Kingdom alone just to talk to the South's young Prince.'

Wai Kit stood there, then, widrew his sword.

'I'm sorry, old friend. Its... its just.. I've longed to go back to the South County for so long....'

'I know that pain, my Prince. Trust me on that.'

His expression became glum.

'Listen, young lad... There's something about your uncle you ought to know...'

Just as he was about to utter his words, there was a loud tumble, as if something huge had crashed unto the ground. The Temple's alarm was immediately struck. Everyone in the inn ran for cover, others closed thier windows and barred the doors. Halo and hte young rpince grabbed thier swords, and ran out so see what was going on. There, outside the inn, they could see a group of soldiers stand in front of the fallen Tree Gate of the Temple, forcing thier way in with the guards of the Temple of Light. The monks were heated over thier intrusion into such a holy and sacred place. One of the soldiers drew his sword, and killed one of the monks in cold blood. The young prince drew his sword. So did Halo. Both men raced to engage the soldiers, but froze in their tracks. The soldier's sword, still dripping in the monk's blood, had the crest of the moon on it, just like the one Halo was holding.

March of the Succubus - (Chapter 7) The Lionheart

The light blue waters cascaded serenely down the stoney arch ways, its smooth polished pebbles clearly visible beneath the crystal clear waters. White lilies ornated its watery surafce, and then, there was a splash, and ripples began to disrupt the tranquility of the sight, as four heavy footsteps trudged across the river. It felt cold and chilly to the touch, yet refreshing. But to Halo, neither the chills of the icy cold water of the mountains biting into his wounds or the exzahustion he felt engaging the demon had much effect on him. His spirit had soared. How long has it been? Five years? Now, after all these years of separation, he had finally met Prince Wai Kit, all grown up, strong and healty, and learned of his safety. That was all this old man needed to survive on. He managed a smile in the young prince's direction, and so was its reply. Lord Wiliam's smile.

They trotted on, wading the river waters until finally, behind the trees of old willlow, there, stood a magical gate. The gate itself was beyond the imagination of any engineer in the land. Two large oaks intertwined, forming an arch over thier heads, towering above them, the only passageway is through its gapping slit in between, large enough to fit an elephant. They stood before its inpenetratable timber. The General dumbfounded. The Prince, smiling. Not a single piece of steel or wood, a pure gate formed by the magics of Mother Nature herself. The entrance into the temple of Light.

'I never thought this day would come.... Such a small world it is.....' began Halo, lost for words.
The Prince just smiled even more, and leaned towards the general. The general, confused, followed suit.

'I'll never forget that face, no matter how the tides have changed or how the gods have forsaken us, old friend.' and gave the general a hug. 'To the years of seperation, my friend. I've missed the lot of you!'

'I'm just glad you're alright.' He looked at the yung prince. My, how the young lad has grown! He used to carry the lad on his back, but now.... The prince that stood before him resembled much of the late Lord William, a strong lad full of youth and vitality, a charming man any fine maiden would fall for. Just like his father had wished for.

'Oh... do I have stories to tell you, questions to ask! How's it been? Have you been eating right? Do.. do they ill-treat you by God's name, if they did, I'll....'

'Haha. Easy there my friend! I'm fine. And no, the elders have been very nice folk. Now, what say we lose the sentiments and get you cleaned up first? It must have been a long journey uphill! Come, let me show you around!' the prince said, and placed his hand over the tired Halo's shoulder.

'Great.... I'll need more than that.' he said, rolling his eyes. He looked at the little boy still hiding behind the young prince. 'And who may you be, little lad?' he said, squatting down, reaching out his hand.

The shy little boy blushed, and hid behind the Prince.
'Go on Jimmy... its alright.' said the Prince.

'Oh... I'm sorry for before, Jimmy.' Halo had never felt more joy before in his life. 'I thought you were our handsome prince here. Haha. My old head must've forgotten the years! You both look just alike....'

General Halo stopped short. 'Wait... is he your? I.. I mean, his.. his your?' he was smiling, and nervous now. Could it be that the prince had...

The Prince shook his head, and smiled.
The puzzled general was puzzled, and the prince could see that. He laughed.
'Don't you worry, my friend, don't you worry. Come, I'll explain it on the way' chuckled the Prince as the gates swung open, pushing the confused General inside its walls.

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Blood was everywhere, the bodies of his men lying dead at his feet. The second wave had taken them by surprise. What's worst, those archers were flying. In the air! No warfare has ever prepared Siow for such a feat. From the safety of his hiding, he glanced up, and saw the archers reaching for another arrow, acrhing their bows.

'Take cover! Head back to the front!' The next wave came, and those unlucky enough were caught in its devouring graps. He panted, deciding what to do next. Remaining here would make them sitting ducks. They had to find cover. His shield held high up, General Siow made a dash across the field, the arrows hitting on his sole defence hard and precise. He made it onto a horse, and galloped across the field, along with the remaining of his knights, the archers' arrows filling the night sky once more.

The battlehorn in hand, he raised it high in the air, and blew, again and again, as they approached the front. Soldiers and guards got to thier feet, and armed themselves. Lord Nesh awoke from his slumber, and quickly reached for his sword. He stepped out of the tent, and to his horror, saw the winged demons in the air, his men burnt to crisps. He clenched his fists, hard, and slammed the ground in anger. One of the demons flew past him, aimed an arrow, and released it towards the Lord. He stood there, undetered, and with one swift move caught the arrow with his bare hands, arched his back, and threw it back at the demon, hitting it square in the face, his emotions unchanging. It yelped, and fell to the ground, where his guards finished the work.

'Come men! The demons picked a wrong night to challenge the House of Nesh! To arms! To arms!'

The demons remained airbourne, launching arrow after arrow at the helpless footsoldiers below. Suddenly, there was a loud crack of a bullet. One of the demons fell. Then two. Then another two. The demons looked below, and there, Seargent Chern Chiang stood, his accuracy as a marksmen taking the winged demons out one after the other. The demons were about to take him out, when more and more gunmen began to emerge behind Seargent, firing violently to the skies. The demons fell, one aftter another, in quick succession. Angered, they returned with another volley of arrows.

'To shield!' shouted Chern Chiang, and the gunsmen lowered thier guns and raised thier shoulders, the arrows merely penetrating the thick bamboo plates.

'To arms! Fire at will!'

The demons knew they were at lost, and began to retreat. Suddenly, there was a loud clap of thunder, and a bolt struck at the flying demons hard. Olaf raised his hammer again, and then slammed the ground. In an instant, another bolt of lightning struck the demons, scorching their wretched souls.

General Siow arrived at the front, and gave the orders.
'Men! Its time to face your demons! Gather your strengths and pray that we show them some mercy. Now, forward, charge!'

Twenty thousand strong headed towards the castle, calvary leading the way, the footsoldiers next, Chern Chiang's snipers, Olaf and Karth's tunnelers following swiftly behind. The castle responded, more arrows filling the skies.

'Archers, fire!' Siow gave the command. His archers immediately got into formation, and let lose a barrage of arrows unto the sky, hitting the castle guards. Then, the demons responded. Huge boulders were lauched, covered in blue flames, and hit Siow's men.

'Catapult!' The footsoldiers fell in agony.

'March, forward! No one lives forever! For his majesry the king!'

More boulders were launched, trying hard to break the Nesh's formation. But they had the numbers, and the strengths. His men were close to the castle walls now, when there was a loud tremble.

'FOOLS!'

The Succubus emerged from the emptiness of the air, and towered before them. The army was stopped dead in thier tracks, the calvary's horses neighing loudly. With one swoop, the demon crushed the grounds, killing at least a dozen of Siow's men. It lift up its fists, and went for another strike.

The footsoldiers engaged it, but were thrown about like toothpicks. The Succubus proved to be too strong. Arrows were launched, but did little or no effect on the demon, bouncing off in all directions. Then, with a loud roar, it lifted both fists into the air, and slammed the ground hard, breaking it apart. Siow could not believe waht he saw. The ground trembled and shook, and then, it began to crack, light emerging from its depths. Then, arms began to reach out into the open air, grabbing his men and pulling them down into the earth, as more and more demons emerged from the firey pits of hell. They were surrounded. Siow's men battled on valiantly on, but the Succubus was too strong. The newly emerged demons were also quick, jumping about so quickly, slitting the throats of the soldiers, sending blood into the air. Siow and his men fought hard, killing the demons, only to find another dozen men falling to the Succubus's wrath. Siow gave the signal to his men, and the calvary surrounded the demon. Then, without warning, they unleashed hooks, attached to steel wires, binding the demon to the ground. The first few hooks were futile, but as the numbers increased, the demon slowly began to falter, and finally, it was brought down. The lesser demons, at the sight of thier master's peril, retreated back into the depths of the underground, leaving only the Succubus in chains. Siow edged forward.

'We have you now demon!' he raised his sword, and plundged it into the demon, only to find the demon erupting into hundreds of bats, flying in all directions. The bats rised into the air, and once more, the towering Succubus stood mighty above Siow's men.

'FOOLISH MORTALS! YOU ARE NOT WORTH MY TIME! I EXPECTED A LITTLE... COMPETITION FROM THE HOUSE OF NESH... BUT ALL I SEE ARE A BUNCH OF WEAKLINGS!'

Just then a bolt of thunder hit the demon square in the face.

'ARRGH!!' it shouted, and paced backwards.

'Never underestimate us, you wretched demon!'

General Olaf, his hammer in hand, rushed towards the demon, and raised the hammer for another strike. The bolt caught the demon right in the chest this time. Behind him, the remaining of Nesh's forces arrived, alongside an arsenal of catapults.

'GARH!' the demon tried to go for the artilary, but the bolts were too much for him to handle. Another bolt went straight for the face, but this time, the Succubus caught the bolt, compressed in, and threw it back at Olaf, causing him to bounce a few paces back. The demon reached forward, fist held up high, and pummeld his strength to the ground. It stopped in mid air. There, below him, Lord Nesh stood, his outstrecthed hand stopping the demon's death blow right in the tracks.

'A WORTHY ADVERSARY.... '

Lord Nesh sprang forward, avoiding the demon's grasp, and laid a punch to the demon's knees. The Succubus immediately fell in pain. The lowered demon sufferd another one to its jaws, and it was tossed into the air, alas came crashing down on the castle's walls.

The demon laid there, motionless. Lord Nesh stood up, and approached the demon, when suddenly, laughter filled the air.

'INTERESTING, MORTAL. THE MASTERS MAY HAVE GOOD USE OF YOUR... SERVICES'

'Don't give my these bullocks demon! Now, come back here so I can kick that foul a** of yours and send you back where you came from!'

The demon laughed, and raised its hand. A flare immediately illuminated the skies. A signal.

'SOME OTHER TIME, MORTAL, WE SHALL MEET AGAIN.' and with that, vanished into thin air.

Lord nesh was about to give chase, when he heard a familiar galloping of horses from afar. He stood there, silent. No.. it can't be.

Slowly, emerging from the fallen stone of the drak castle, shadowy figures began to appear. Nesh's men drew their swords, and prepared for the worst. The figures began to emerge out of the smoke, but they were no demon. Humans! Very much alive humans on horsebacks. Lord Nesh stared blankly at the human figures, unsure of what he saw.

Phillip and the MoonGlades stared back, riding the Dark Nights. Only they had bloodshot eyes, and wings behind their backs, the crest of the moon glistering brightly under the moon lit sky.

March of the Succubus - (Chapter 6) War At Hand

The night was but a velvet sky, its stary sisters glistering in the pale moonlit daze of the lunar's glare. But tonight, the clouds were as dark as the colour of night itself, the moon's beauty well hidden behind its dreadful curtains. It was dark. Pitch black.

The encampment was long since ready, the men already doing the rounds. Waves after waves of torches burned brightly in front of the camps, causing it to look like an entire village on fire form a distance away. Footsoldiers marched, thier rythmic pounding of the ground echoed throughout Norshire forest. Clanking of metal, the swooshing of blades as well as the sharp crack of the arrowhead hitting the hay-sack dummies bombarded his ears. But to General Siow The Great, it was music to his ears.

Scouts patrolled the woods in packs of ten, thier blazers illuminating the shrubs and shadows of the night. Then, there, at the frontlines, the pride of Siow's years as the commnading officer for the House of Nesh, the Immortals - Twenty thousand men in heavy armor and halbierds, with shields made of pure alloyed steel, a new breed of waeponary the blacksmiths had concocted for him. Also, there was the snipers. Mean, lean hunting machines that were well hidden within the forests, thier eyes well accustomed to the dark, rifles at the ready. That was the massive army only the house of Nesh had the authority and well-organized art of war to produce, and on such short notice. The letter bore a simple message, by order of King Wye, he was to command Lord Nesh's troops to advance towards a target location. Something about a lair of somesort. General Siow didn't bother with the details. He never did, for he has not lost a war while he was the supreme commander. Never. Besides, who was he to question the might of Lord Nesh? Quite literally. It was fabled that his lordship had such strength, that he could build a tower of stone with his barehand, his left one that is. The other he used to scrath his back and lean against the walls for support. But what he saw before him was nothing he had ever set his eyes upon. The castle was not gigantic, but the aura around it was melicious, cold and dark to the sight. Black clouds always seemed to gather above its rooftops, as though taunting his army to challenge the forces that lie within those dark walls. The occasional clasps of thunder and the eerie breeze surrounding them got stronger every passing second.

But he was warned that it was not going to be an easy enemy. General Siow, in his gleaming armour of silver, its heavy breast plate and shoulder mails reflecting the light of the torches of his men passing by, entered the General's Encampment. Four others were already in there, and stood at attention as he entered, helmets by their side, the crest of the bear clearly visible over thier armour. That was the way it always was. Major Karth stepped aside, giving the General acces to the table before him. The old soldier was not of an advantage in height, but his skill with the sword and tactics on horseback made him one of the House of Nesh's most vital soldiers. He had severed his Lord and Master for over three decades, his greyish beard visible through the cracks on his battered helm. Beside the Old Major, as they called him, stood two others, the agile Seargent Chern Chiang; swift with a blade, but even quicker with the rifle, and General Siow's second in command, General Olaf, the hot tempered personal guardian of Lord Nesh himself. His massive physique cast a shadow that covered most of the light in the camp, and in his hadn he held the Legendary Hammer of Gondar, the fabled weapon that caused the earth to shatter with every blow. General Siow and General Olaf were never in talking terms, but in the world of warfare, alliances are formed and broken, when necessary. At that very moment, it was a bond to the death.

The map before them was laid out and illuminated only by candle light, but to these experts of war, it was butter and bread. All heads were turned towards the last man in the tent, and they all bowed in coherence. Lord Nesh, in his glittering armour of gold, approached the table.

'Arise, my friends. Let us make do without the formalities. I want to know how the army is preparing,' his lordship said in an authpritative tone.

'Alas, my leidge, the footsoldiers are all armoured and armed, and ready for battle.' said Major Karth. 'And so are the calvary.'

'Excellent. Form the divisions. I want that castle taken by sunrise!'

'With all do respect, sire. We cannot take a castle of that magnitude with mere swords! I suggest we wait a little longer, the catapults would be ready by...' stuttered Chern Chiang.

'Wait?! WAIT?! I've been waiting for two whole days to get my hands on those wretched demons! Did you not see what they did to my people? Knaves! Fools! Wretched ingrates of the lowest lifeforms!'

General Siow remained silent, looking intently at the map spread before them.

The rest resumed, ignoring his deep concentration. General Olaf, aware of the situation the army was in, chipped in. He was slow and heavy, was his voice was loud and ear pummeling.

'My leidge, perhaps we should wait till sunrise. Our men have had a rough journey within the forest of Norshire, and attacking the castle in such consitions would be but suicide, my leidge! Let them rest. Besides, the darkness favours the demons in more ways than one...'

The speed was incredibally fast that even an experienced General like Olaf could not forsee. He winched in pain. Lord Nesh's fist struck the middle of the General's massive chest, and in an instant he was thrown backwards and flew directly out of the encampment and crashing hard on his back, the force so strong that his armour split in two. He groaned in pain, blood streaming down to his chin. The others merely watched, silent. Olaf looked up, and bowed, his hands clenched tighly around his chest.

'Anymore smart ideas from anyone?!' Lord Nesh looked around, his fist held high in the air. Everyone was silent, not daring to even look at the Lord.

'Good, now, as I was saying, we..'

'We send in the tunnelers.' interupted General Siow.

Lord Nesh glared at General Siow, who had just tested his patience. He could land an assault just like he did Olaf, but Siow was different. He was a man of pure talent, and even he, the Lord of the Northern Lands had to admit. But such insolence was unforgivable.

'And what's THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN!?' he blarred.

'It is simple, milord.' General Siow replied calmly. 'It would take days, even weeks if we directly assault the castle's walls with our men, even though he have the advantage of numbers. But if we can entrench our ground forces by digging a tunnel straight into the demon's lair, we could hasten our progress, while we await the catapults to be prepared. There is little to lose sire.'

Lord Nesh was fuming now, but he knew his general made sense. Engaging his enemies head on would prove difficult, but if they could attack from beneath the lair, it waould be a lot simpler, and they had the element of surprise.This gave him a little more hope, and he relaxed a little. That was the reason his father had chosen the Siow to be his general in command anyway. The man was wise, and with both the looks and the sheer strength to go with. All northlanders were strong, even as a child. A five year old who couldn't lift up a horse with one hand was considered weak, though such occasions were rare. But on the downside, the people of the north, were.... deprived of an intellectual mind. Northlanders were mostly hot-headed, harsh talking men and women who distasted hygene and cared as much as peanuts for manerism. But Siow... was different. He was the only child of the the late General Scott II who outwitted most of the people around him. He was considered wierd by many of his people, for he kept quiet most of the time. But when he spoke, the ideas that brewed from within was so brilliant, it would be foolish not to give it some thought. Not that the Northlanders ever thought before they acted, so Siow was doing them a favour.

'Then.... so be it. We begin the entrenchment immediately.' he said, and with that, swallowed his pride, tunred his back at the rest of the men, and headed back to his own camp, stepping over General Olaf as he went by, pushing the aides attending to the wounded general aside. General Siow bowed to an empty presence of the Lord, and exited, Major Karth by his side.

'Another senseless brawl, as always,' said Siow, stridding past several soldiers brandshing spears.

'His lordship has a very.... apparent need to show power. You, I and the rest of us know that. But he is still our Lord and Master, young lad, and in time, you'll learn to know a little more about his lordship. Besides, his strength preceeds us all. We need him, young lad. And I have sworn my hammer to it!'

Siow smiled. Old Major had always been a father to him, telling him the ways of the court, especially when it come to his lordship. Of all the soldiers in the battlefield, Siow respected Old Major the most. He was the wisest, the most experienced, and above all, the most caring. Another rare trait in the blood of a North Lander.

They continued to trot forward, until they arrived at a camp with the emblem of a sickle on it.

'Let me do the talking, lad. Go get some rest, you'll need it.' and with that, Major Karth entered the camp to brief the tunnelers of the task ahead. Siow stood outside, the wind getting stronger by the second. He ignored it, and looked beyond the horizon, staring at the army before him. Twenty thousand strong. He liked the sound of that. In a matter of hours, his men would be able to situate themselves near the castle walls for a surprise attack. The demons won't see them coming. That, provided nothing stood between the tunelers and thier work. He had to be sure. He headed back to the camp, mounted a horse, and galloped all the way down the field towards the stables. It was his favourite place, where his best knights gathered for a quick game of dice or to sharpen thier mastery of swordmenship. He disembarked, the calvary batallion saluting before him. The knights approached the General, forming a circle as they listened intently to his orders. They were to guard the tunnelers while they were at work, but to stay out of sight behind the mulbery bushes. Archers would have to do the job to back them up, as the gunmen would be too loud, and the enemy might be alerted.

Siow continued to reassure them of the daunting task, and was just about to wish his men the best of luck, when suddenly, one of the knights drew his sword and dagger and lundged at the general. Siow dodged, barely, the tip of the sword slicing his armour plate. He was still stunned when his assailant went for another strike. This time, he dodged it perfectly, avoiding the blade that was aimed for his neck.

'Assasin! Guard the General!'

One of the knights drew his own sword, but was not quick enough. The Assasin dealt a deadly blow to the neck, and the armoured soldier fell to his knees. Then he ran. Siow drew his rapier, and orderd his men to give chase.

'Do not let him out of the excampment! Go after him!'

The assasin was agile, almost inhuman. Three solders gave chase, then eight, then ten, then an entire scout patrol. He was quick. Too quick. He avoided his pursuers and headed into the forest, dissapearing just in time as the scouts released a volley of gunfire at his direction, Siow arriving a second too late.

'Damn it!' Siow cursed. 'He's spotted us.' He looked around, his guards searching desperately for the run-away assasin. The faint galloping of the scout's horses could still be heard.

'Go! Warn the Lord that the enemy has spotted our location! Go! We don't have much time now. Gather the troops. We march towards the castle immediately!'

The guards immediately reached for the battlehorn hanging by the guard tower, but stopped in his tracks.

General Siow shouted, 'Hey, soldier! Sound the alarm! What are you..'

He turned into the sky and he too, and was left speechleess.

There, high above them, the once velvet sky was now ablaze with flames. Small flames at first, like little fireflies that consumed the emptiness of the black clouds, illuminating it. Thousands and thousands of them right up into the air. And then, it slowed down, and began to decend, heading menacingly towards the encampment at top speed. An arrow shower! The enemy has engaged!

'Take cover!' Siow bellowed, rolling quickly under the nearest tower, dodging the first few arrows in time, the guard before him screaming in torment as the arrows pierced him. Then, he went silent, and fell on the ground. Dead, and covered in flames. There was havoc as the pain and anguish of his men filled the cold, chilly air, one by one falling like dominos. The arrow's flames did its marvel, burning all that was not already dead. Then for a brief moment, the arrows stopped. Siow quickly emerged from his cover, a shield in hand, surrounded by the bodies of his men, and reached for the battlehorn. He drew his breath, and was about to blow, when the skies were once again ablaze with flaming arrows. And this time, so were the archers.

*********************************************************************************

The little boy emerged from behind the shadows of the trees.

'Halo?' said the little boy.

Halo turned and once he saw him, forgot all the pain his body has endured. He immediately ran forwards and held the little lad in his embrace, tears of joy flooding his blood-drench face.

'My prince! Oh... My young prince!' he repeated, refusing to let his hand go.

'Halo?' came another voice behind him. Halo froze, and looked at the direction where the sound came from. There, before him, stood a young man of charm and youth, with a bow in his right and an arrow in another. Halo stood at disbelief.

'Halo? ... You can let little Jimmy there go now. You're going to crush him if you continue hugging him like that.'

The old general looked at the little boy struggling to breath in his strong arms, and immediately released his grip, apoligizing over and over again to the little boy, who ran to the young lad's side, terified. Halo glanced up at the young lad. He immediately recognized those azure eyes.

'Its good to see you again, old friend.'

This time, Halo didn't let the young Prince Wai Kit go.

March of the Succubus - (Chapter 5) The Sun, the Bear and the Nightingale

The blurry image of a titanous mountain was visible, somewhere beyond the thick blue mist. It had always possessed a certain mystery about it, and legend has it that only the brave and the bold could savour its fruits of eternal knowledge, from its lone monestry at its pinnacle, the Temple of Light. There was no doubt about it. He was close now. With one kick to the horses sides, Whirlwind blazed forward, its hooves hitting hard against the mountain passage of grey gravel. By nightfall, he would be able to make it to the peak. The steep mountainous roads leading to the peak was too dangerous to travel by horse. The general couldn't risk it.

He disembarked, tied Whirlwind to a nearby fig, prepared his arms and supplies, and began the tenious hike. It was a long way uphill, but this was not the first time he's been here. Mt Oddysey was Lord William's favourite amongst his kingdom. The late Lord always seeked the advise of the council of the Temple of Light, believing that their wisdom was undetered. It proved out to be right. Every cannal he dug, every fort built, every crop chosen, was all favours from the council's great knowledge. But ever since Lord Phillip claimed the throne, he banished the council, refusing to pay tribute to its gods and fund the temples schools and monestries. Very soon, most of the scholars left Mt Oddysey, and only a handful of the elders remained to pass on their knowledge, or whatever was left of it.

Halo breathed heavy now. He was not as agile as he used to be, his old bones are beginning to ache with every step he took. He smiled to himself. The years he had spent his life on, training for battle after battle after battle. He was a soldier, for King and Country. But Lord William had put the meaning of life back into him. His lordship was the one that shed light into his miserable life, allowing him to tend to the royal stallions, attend his court, and even promoted him to who he was now. Halo stopped, tears seeping from his eyes. No matter. I have swore my loyalty to the House of Mok, for as long as I shall live.

He barely missed the huge boulder. The general slipped from his grasp, and fell into a rocky platform, the huge rock smashing where he hung on to seconds ago into a million pieces. There, up in the skies, he saw it. The gruesome shadow of a winged-demon.

It circulated the skies for a moment. Then, it swooped downwards, picked up another massve boulder with its bare hands, and tossed it towards the general at top speed. Halo dived, once more missing the boulder by a hair's distance.

Halo drew his sword. It was unmistakable. The figure in front of him was a succubus. But... It was male. Somehow, he had seen that face before. He just knew it. But it was different now. Its bloodshot eyes were creepy enough to look at, let alone those ... wings... sticking out of its back.

'You fight well, mortal, for a man of your age.' said the demon, decending until he was in front of the general, its wings wide open.

'Age is wine my friend. That's something your kind cannot comprehend.'

'Brave, but foolish. Can you not see? You are in the presence of a god. Now, tell me where the prince is, or I will have your head.'

'I would, but I shall choose not to, not an abomanation like you,' Halo held his stance.

'So be it, mortal.' With that, the demon zoomed forward with blurring speed, and appeared behind Halo in a split second. It thrust its blade forward, but to its amazement, Halo turned, avoided the blade, and give the demon a strong kick to the shin. The blade fell off its hands.

'How'd you?..' the demon asked, confused. A mortal? Such speed?
Halo got to his feet, and back to his stance, this time, aiming for its heart. With one plundge, he thrusted his rapier into the demon, the tip coming out the other end, blood splurtering in all directions.

'Foolish mortal!' the demon yelled, and pulled at the rapier, with a force that caused Halo to fall a hundred paces backward.

'Impressive, demon' said Halo, getting back on his feet.

The demon wasted no time, and began to chant.

Istomeo gethomisha
Kishyatokuni Juoshina
ESTONITOKUNI JUOSHINA
ISTOMOE GETHOMISHA JUOSHINA!

Immediately, the ground they were standing on began to break apart, and stone as well as ash filled the air. Then, it appeared. A serpent, large as the guard towers back at the South Castle, emerged from the ground, its scales covered in flames. It searched around until it spotted Halo, and then, with lightning speed, it struck.

Halo barely dodged the attack, the serpent ripping the back of his tunic. He barely had time to breath before the serpent struck again, this time crashing into the ground and caused a heavy tremour. Halo jumped in the nick of time, but fell right into the flaming hot scales of the serpent.

'Arrgh!' he yelled, as he fell to the ground, his chest and knees burnt from the intense heat. The demon chuckled.

"Now you see mortal!? Tell me where the prince resides! Or I shall strike once more. And this time, no miracle will save you!'

Halo lifted his chin up, slowly, and faced the demon.
'Over... my.. dead... body!'

The demon's laughter filled the air.
'Take one good look at me, mortal, for I shall send you to the depths of hell!'
The serpent curled, and struck Halo again.

The force of the last attack was too immense to describe, but the ground shattered, forming a large crater where Halo stood. The demon smirked, yet another soul under his belt. It edged towards his victim for one last look.

It happened so fast. Two shots were fired, one to the left eye, and one to his left shoulder. The demon was stunned. Then, out of the debris, Halo stood, very much alive, his tunic shred to bits, holding a revolver bellowing smoke from its tip.

'Im... mpossible.. How'd....'

Then, the demon saw it. The mark on the right shoulder. It can't be. The mark of the Heavens. The blood cross. This mortal.... this mortal was a Slayer!

'The demon who shall be damned, must sell his heart, and be bestowed the heart of pure evil, that sees all evil, and feels all evil - the left eye of the Demonlord. The demon who shall be damned, must sell his soul, and be bestowed the heart of Malice, right in the centre of the mark of the Abyss - the Mark of the Succubus.'

The demon could not believe what he just heard. A Slayer! It has encountered a Slayer! It... it cannot be.

'You've met your match, demon.'

Halo took one last aim, this time at the real heart of the demon, and fired. The creature immediately burst into dark flames, its piercing screams filled the air. And then, it vanished.

From a distance, two young, azure eyes witnessed the whole event.

**********************************************************************************

Lord Jun tried in vain to get up, his arms and legs broken from the impact. Robson moved forward, assisting him.

'I owe you my life, my friend,' Jun said, happy to be alive.
'Say no more. Come, let me first be rid of this undead minion.' that said, Lord Robson moved forward, and approached the demon.
'No wait!' But it was too late.
The demon jumped suddenly, and lunged at Lord Robson with its out streched claws. It missed by a skin of his teeth. Lord Robson quickly drew his rapier.

'But I just shot the damn thing!' Robson shouted.
'Foolish mortal! You cannot harm the flesh of a god!' it taunted, its blood red eyes filled with anger.
'That's what I've been trying to tell you! It cannot die!'' Lord Jun shouted back.
'Oh, now you're telling me!?' said Robson, avoiding another melee from the demon.

Lord Jun turned to one of Lord Robson's man.
'Hey! Give him a hand!'
'No, sire, I might hit him!'

'Its alright, I got it under....'
Lord Robson was thrown right up into the air, his chest aching in pain, before crashing down unto the ground. He groaned. The demon raised his fist, ready for another strike, when Robson lunged the rapier in his hand into the demon's left eye. It screamed in pain, retreated a few paced back, then spread its wings, and took off. Robson's men immediately shot wildly at the demon, but it was long gone.

'Poking it in the eye? Now why can't I think of that?' jeered Lord Jun as he gave Robson a hand.
'Now is not a time to fool around, brother, this is madness! What are those things, and.... what do they want?' cried Lady Veena.
Lord Jun approached his sister and placed his hand over her shoulder, comforting her.
'Its alright... its alright....'

Lord Robson stood up, glad to find that he was unharmed.
'Again, I thank you. But what brings you here to the East?' asked Lord Jun.
'I was on a scout party under the orders of the king. I was patroling the forests of Norshire until we got lost. So we wondered here for days, seeking a way out. Until we saw Lady Veena here...'
Lady Veena was weepng now.
'They... they saved my life. The two knights that excorted me fought bravely, but they didn't make it across the river. I wouldn't have too, is it was not for Lord Robson and his men.'

'It would be a mark of dark history the day Lord Robson turns a blind eye to a Damsel in distress, milady.' he said, smiling.
'Cheeky as always.' remarked Lord Jun. Lord Robson replied with a smile.
They returned to the scout party, and together, made their way out of Norshire forest, keeping silent the whole way. There was a lot on Lord Jun's mind. He glanced at his sister. She too had a lot to think. She did the same, and grasped her brother's hand tightly. Tears streamed down Lady Veena's eyes. He placed his arm around her, giving her the reassurance that it will all be fine. But he knew it was not. Something had just assaulted his castle, killed his man, murdered his general, and now the people of the East are prone to its wrath. He had to do something... but against a force as such.... What could he do?

Dusk was upon them, and it was not long before they found a perfect spot near a river to set up camp. The campfire burned, illuminating the worn faces of the two survivors of the East County. Both sat up all night, praying for the lost lives that sacrificed themselves so that they could survive, paying little attention to the briefing Lord Robson was giving.

'...... so tomorrow, we head for the Castle of the West. If the beast had struck the South and the East, it would be but a matter of time before they strike the West. Messenger, take this and send it to the Guardians patroling the borders. I want every soldier on alert. Signal the riflemen, and fire at anything that flies that doen't resemble a woodpecker.'
The messenger saluted, took the letter, and galloped off into the darkness of the night.
'...and you two....'
Jun and Veena looked up.
'.... will be welcomed as guests to my castle,' said Lord Robson.
Lady Veena smiled, and nodded.
"Thank you,' replied Lord Jun.
'Now, have a good nights sleep. Its a long journey out of here when morning comes. I don't want to have a couple of zombies in the troupe. You there, keep watch. Alert the rest if you see anything.'
The guard saluted, grabbed his rifle, and dissapered into the woods.

Suddenly, there was loud rustling. The guard hurried back.
'Riders sire! There is a pack of riders headed this way!'
'Arm yourselves men, but stay quiet. Take the Lady to safety,' commanded Lord Robson.
His guards drew thier arms, and waited in the silence of the night.
The sounds of rustling drew closer, footsteps at first, then galloping. A horde of galloping! Lord Robson signalled his men to stay hidden, and moved forward, sneaking behind the shadows of the trees.

Lord Robson lay low, crouching as he tried to get a better view. He instantly recognised the crest on the armour of the calvary riding past. The crest of the bear. The House of Nesh was at war!

March of the Succubus - Destiny (Chapter 4 Part II)

Lord Jun struggled to keep his balance. The last walls of the Castle of the East crashed before his very eyes. He was wounded. Badly. Most of his guards had perished in the bloodly fight; others fled like cowards, but he, Ordina and two others had made it to the gate. He had never fought a force as vast as this before. They were quick and agile, and worst. They sustained no flesh wound. He remembered stabbing one over and over again in the heart, but it did not falter, not even slowing down. These ... things, were inhuman! They slashed his men like a knife through butter, with sabres that looked lke it was on fire. Ordina, too, was badly wounded.



'Run, my leidge! Lady Veena awaits you! I'll hold them off while you make a run for it!' he said, as they retreated down the stairs. Before Lord Jun could protest, he pushed him out of the door, and bolted it shut.



'Ordina! Open this door! You cannot do this! I am your Lord! Open up! This is an order!' he shouted, slamming his fists hard unto the wooden locks. He tried to push, but to no avail.



'It was a pleasure serving you, my leidge!' and then, there was what sounded fierce fighting. Swords clashed, blows were dealt, cloaks were ripped, screams of pain and agony filled the air.



Jun closed his eyes, and cried. Then, he pulled himself together, grabbed the nearest horse, and made a run for the gates.



********************************************************************************



He did not know how long he travelled. But he knew he had to see Veena. He had to make sure she was safe, he had to know who was behind this attack, and who where those demons? He did not know, but he knew something had to be done. Suddenly, there was galloping behind him. Someone had tracked him down!



He galloped faster, but the sound seemed to get closer. He turned back to look, which was a mistake. Something hit the horse hard, and it fell, and so did Lord Jun. He came tumbling down on to the ground, the bullet barely grazing his left shoulder. He winched in pain. He heard another shot, and he ran for cover behind an oak tree. His hunter came into plain sight now. He was just like an ordinary man, but he had the eyes as red as blood, and there were wings behind his back.



Jun laid quiet and silent behind the tree, concealing himself in its shadows. The hunter looked arround, frustrated that it had lost its prey. The Keeper disembarked, and began searching his surroundings. He saw the horse, and immediately fired another shot, killing the animal.



Its a monster, thought Lord Jun. He paced backwards, trying to hide from the Keeper, but instead, accidentally stepped on a twig. The sound led the Keeper to face in his direction, and immediately let lose a volley of shots. Jun dodged in the nick of time, and reached for his sabre. His sabre! He must have left it back at the castle!



The Keeper stopped his firing, unloaded the empty canister, and reloaded. This is my chance, thought Jun.



Jun immediately jumped into the air, and landed on the surprised Keeper. It pointed its revolver at the Lord, but it was knocked out of its hand. Lord Jun brought the demon to the ground, and began lay punch after punch at the demon. The demon was shocked at first, but then, grabbed Jun, and threw him aside. Jun was thrown a few feet in the air, before landing hard on the bark of a tree. What strength! The Keeper reached for its revolver, readjusting his head like he was unharmed.



He stroded towards the wounded Lord of the East.

'Aisthya Vaisha, mortal.'

A loud shot ripped thorugh the air, and Jun closed his eyes shut, ready for what's to come. Nothing happened. He reopened them, and to his amazement, saw the Keeper lying down on the ground, motionless.

'Made it in time, didn't I?'
Lord Jun turned, and there, in the midst of the tall grass, Lord Robson and his men stood, Lady Veena safely by his side.

March of the Succubus - Destiny (Chapter 4 Part I)

The song of the nightingale cresended as the lone figure approached the gates of the castle. Both sides were massive gardens, laiden with the most precious of roses, tulips and arcasias; buttercups decorated the age-old walls; sea after sea of daisies, edelwiesses, fushias and lilacs were only but a few the infamous gardens the Castle of the East has to boast. Deemed impossible by the local folk, the House of June's passion for its floral cravings seemed to prove them all wrong. The founders of the Eastern Lands brought flower seeds from every part of the Middle Kngdom, even all the way from the fiery pits of the Hazard Lands. There was a war there, all in the name over a supply of seeds of the rare BloodRed rose. This flower was said to be impossbile to grow in humidity, and only grew under the sweet songs of the nightingale. For the Eastern Lands, nightingales were the only mass resource apart from artisan's musicians and poets of love and affecttion. The Hazard Lands were on the contrary, hazardous, as the name says, for the natives in the area were not at all friendly. They prided in calling themselves the Sons of the Stone God, or Stogars. Its ruler, Ruben the Melicious, was as visous as any barbarian warlord could get. And it was no run-of-the-mill tyrant. It was said that this massive brute had the strength to defeat five hundred of the East's border guards alone, unarmed. His people were no different, each possesing the Mighty Ones's bad temper, brutal novelity and untidy character. But they were a force to be reconded with. The last Lord of the East, Lord Bruce IV of June, father of the current Lord Jun I of June, tried to attempt a treaty with the barbarians, for they pillaged the neighbouring villages in search of food and shelter. Instead, when his lordship sent a supply wagon through the Hazard Lands, they were attacked by Ruben's men, and Bruce perished in the war. His son took the throne, and waged war against the Stogars.



Jun swisked his frocks of golden hair backward, as he asways did when he was in a good mood. The guards immediately recognized his lordship's uncanny complexion of every women's desire, and instantly opened the gates, and stood at attention.



'Good morning, gentlemen. Fine day for a song isn't it?' With that, Lord Jun hummed a tune as he skipped across the courtyard, admiring the white roses along the way.



The guards smiled. That was the way Lord Jun had always been. The people of the East loved him. Not only for his charm and witty character, but he was always optimistic, and cared fully for the people. He made sure they had food and wine, shelter and even had the royal medic and his own visor to teach the children about the suns and stars. Inside, Lord Jun indulged himslef in some wine, and prepared for a bath. There were stressing matters on his mind now, but that had to wait. Tonight, he had guests. He undressed, put on the royal robe that bore the crest of the magnificant bird of muisc and sweet melody, and headed for the royal showers.



The castle itself was not large - a coutyard, five massive gardens, a royal court, and around ten rooms for his treasury, his study and his ministers to reside. Compared to the South, the East were not well to do, but they made the best of eveything. Especially when it came to luxury. The loud clanking of metal against metal was audible from the training grounds emmited from the courtyard, where his footsoldiers were undergoing their routine training. He undid the robe, soaked his feet into the warm bath, and relaxed.



'My, my... how you've grown'

Jun jumped, desperately reaching for his robe at the sound of a females's voice.

'When you you learn to knock!' he bellowed, his cheeks blushing red with embarassment.

The lady just stood at the entrance to the royal showers, gazing at the naked Lord naughtily. Lady Veena laughed, and moved towards Lord Jun in a seducing manner.

'Oh come now, little brother, its not like I've never seen them before. We grew up together, ate together, soaked in the tube toge..'

'Oh, I'll have none of that! I'm all grown up now, sister! I'm the Lord and Master of the East!'

'Ah, but to me, ' she said, naughtily caressing her fingers against his still redden cheeks.

'you'll still the little brother I've learn to live with.'

Lord Jun blushed, and kept his head down. Lady Veena was right. They were not of the same blood, the same mother and father, but they were the decendants of the House of June.

Lady Veena continued to tease the charming Lord, undressing her robe and dipping herself into the pool. Lord Jun blushed even more now.

'Oh, come now. I've seen the looks on those maiden's faces when you go on parades down the Land! Oh, how they adore you! Thier screams almost pierce my ears! You're already a grown man, brother. Haven't you considered settling down? Or are you so incapable you cant find a suitor? Oh I know! I'll help. Lets throw a ball tomorrow. I'll invite all the yougn maidens from the Land. We can feast, drink, and oh, we can even...'

Lord Jun pulled himself together, fighting the urge to look at the beautiful lady in the same pool with him. A lady! Oh, the morals!

'Yes.. yes... Just like the last one you threw for me on my 18th birthday? It was a disaster! Veena, I'm not ready for such a responsibility.'

'Oh, but that's because you just ignored everyone!' she drew herself closer to him. He backed away. 'But I know you are! Because your my little brother. You're the Lord of the East. You'll need a companion sometime, don't you? Father would have wanted it.'

There was a long silence.

'I..I'm sorry Jun. I didn't mean to..' muttered Lady Veena.

'Maybe I just haven't found one yet.' said Jun, and rushed off in the direction of his court, his emotions turning sour.

Lady Veena sulked. She knew she just had to bring his father into this. Oh... She loved Jun so. Not the love of lovers, but a sister's love for her little sibling. How she hoped he could find happiness, and not regret it like she did.

She laid there in the waters, staring blankly into space.

Oh, father... If only you were here.



Jun was already dressed and ready for his proceedings at court when Lady Veena arrived. She just stood at the entrance, admiring the charming lad who was addressing his subjects with such vigour. Just like his father. She smiled. The guards had seen her, and was about to announce her arrival, when she stopped them, turned her back, and left to her room.



'...the Sentinels have seen the said monster, milord. It was last seen at the river near Brusells, attacking a barn of an old farmer. The farmer survived the ordeal, but his cattle, crops and pigs were slashed to death. The methods of killing were very similar to..'



'Did they have thier hearts taken out?' said the Lord of the East.



'..Yes, milord. And, there were sightings by our scouts of another similar monster in the West, the South and the Eastern grounds.'



'Then tighten the defences around the city. I do not want that thing near us any time soon. Set up a search party. I want every forest of Norshire scoured and searched. If it is said to be there, it must be headed for another village. We'll be ready for it.'



Just then, the gates were forced open. A soldier barged in, wounded severely. His armour, bearing the crest of the moon, was torn to bits, and blood was oozing out from his mouth. He was bleeding profusely, and his arms looked as if they were broken. The guards seized him, but Lord Jun called him in. He knew that crest anywhere. The man was a MoonGlade. He signalled for his royal medic, and they began treating the wounded man immediately.



'It..it's no use... Save the medicine for another! I .. I bring news from the South Land...' the man said, fighting the medic's hands holing him down.

'Ter.. terri...terrible newwwsss!' he said, blood coughing out at all directions.

'Get the man some water! Now tell me, brave knight, what urgency is this? Did Lord Phillip send you?'



The man was not going to make it, Lord Jun knew that. He was breathing heavily now, and was shaking terribly.

'Lord... Phi..' he coughed. 'Lord Phillip... is dead, milord.'



Lord Jun stared at him.

'What? How is this possible? What happened?! Tell me soldier! Tell me quickly!'



The man tried to speak... but the pain was unbearable.

'Sire.... take... take this.... it... would... explain... eve...everything....'

The MoonGlade handed a seal to the Lord, and with that, the knight drew his last breath. Lord Jun looked desperately at his medics. They shook their heads.



Lord Jun felt the sharp pain in his heart, reached out his hand, and closed the knight's eyes.

'Rest now, brave warrior. Take... take him to the graveyard. I want a proper burial for his bravery.'

His guards saluted, and carried the lifeless body out of the court.



Everyone, including the ministers at court had thier eyes on the seal in Lord Jun's hands now. It was some sort of stone, red as a ruby, but it was soft and cold to the touch.



'Milord,' said the Prime Minister, 'I think it is a crytomine. The South ministers hide thier most precious information inside them with light, most of it about secret meeting places, or names of people they asociate with. I do not know how they do it, but whatever information it carries must be very worthwhile, milord. They don't just give crytomine to anyone else except people they trust the information with.'



'Open it.' said Lord Jun.



The minsiter bowed, and took the stone from the Lord's hands. He lit a candle, and began to burn the stone. It began to fizz, and soon, everyone in the court was amazed, as light began to emerge from its interior. The lights were lines at first, and then, slowly, it began to form words, little by little. Much of the words were unreadable, but all it took was the one sentence in the middle of it all to explain everything.

'...Succubus is hungry... the sons of the Moon have fallen....... Now the Birds of the East.....'

Lord Jun went pale. Just then, there was a terrible rattling outside the gates. The ground shook a little, and everyone fought to keep thier balance.

'Wha... what was that!' shouted the minister.

Lord Jun was equally shocked.
'General Ordina, take the man and go to the gates, find out what's wrong!'
The general saluted, and was about to turn to leave, when a voice said

'THAT WONT BE NECESSARY'

The guards drew their swords. The general stood by Lord Jun.

'A CHARMING YOUNG LAD... QUITE MY TASTE...'

Everyone in the room was shaking, desperately looking around to see where the sound was coming from. Lord Jun wasn't. He drew his sword.

'Show yourself demon!'

'HAHAHA! IF I DID, YOU WONT EVEN STAND A CHANCE, JUN, SON OF BRUCE!'

Lord Jun looked around. Everyone was stunned in ther positions.
'Guards! Take the ministers to safety! General! Excort me to Lady Veena's chambers! Sound the alarm!'

'FOOL! YOU KNOW NOT THE STRENGTH OF THE SUCCUBUS!'

The gates were open, and the ministers rushed out. Suddenly, a deafening scream filled the air, as blood splaterred on the walls of the East Court. There, outside the court, were three Keepers, blade in hand, bloodlust in their eyes, a dead Prime Minister at their feet.

'Charge!' said the general, and the guards immediately rushed forward, sabre at arms. With two siwft moves, the Keepers sliced the guards in half.

'Protect the Lord!' the general shouted. By now, more and more guards rushed to the courts. Jun and his party of ministers took the other route, and into the safety of Lady Veena's room, who was shcoked and scared at the same time.
'Jun, what's going on?'
'I've no time to explain! Now, general, take my sister to the stables. Prepare a horse and send her to our Allies in the outskirts of the East County! I'll take care of these demons!'

'But milord, you can't just...' the general said.
'I said, GO!'

The general grabbed Lady Veena's hand, and dragged her out of the room.
'But what about you?' she shouted.
'I'll be fine! I'll meet you when it is safe!'
Lord Jun held his sabre.
'Now man... charge!'
The door flung open, and Lord Jun and his men faced the three Keepers head-on.

Down in the stable, General Ordina prepared the horse, and placed Lady Veena safely on its saddle.
'I pledge my life to guard you, milady, but Lord Jun cannot fight these demons himself. I must return to him. Be safe, milady. God Bless you. You two! Excort the Lady to the safe village nearby! We'll meet up when the time comes.'

Lady Veena shook her head,
'I'm not leaving without Jun!'
'Milady, you must! It is my duty to see that you are safe, and it is on Lord Jun's orders! Now, go!'
Reluctantly, the three riders left the gates and into the forest, her eyes tearful and soaked. She looked back one more time, and to her horror, saw the beast for the first time.

It was towering. It was twice the size of the castle itself, and its presence caused the gardens to wither and die, leaving a dead trail of dead leaves and burnt buds. It was nothing she had ever seen. It was vampiric, with sharp teeth and strong claws. But it resembled a female, and one with wings sticking out of her back. The winged-demon, Succubus.

March of the Succubus - (Chapter 3) House of Mok

Morning came with the first rays of sunlight beaming through the slits of the tall curtains surrounding the room. Lord Mok creaked his eyes open relunctantly. He felt a heavy migrain, and struggled to keep his balance as he got up from his slumber. The pain was excruciating, but it was nothing compared to the humiliation he had suffered the night before at the hands of the young Prince Robson.

Staggering to his feet, he reached for his rapier, only to find it missing from its usual place beside his study.
'Where's the dang sabre!'
The door immediately swung open, and two guards raced into the room. One of them began to search frantically, while the other bowed down at Lord Mok's feet. At last, the younger of the two found it, lying just inches away under the South Lord's bed.
'Give it to me, you ingrates! And begone!'
Bowing, they left. They have both served the South Court for as long as they could remember, and it was wise not to temper with his lordship's temper. Like a towering wall of flames-undeciding, unreasonable, and most of all, unremorseful. Lord Phillip Mok III was latest in the bloodline to take the throne. He was nowhere famous for his generousity towards the people of the South, but rather for the corruption he had lead on. His nephew, Prince Wai Kit, was destined for the throne, if not of tender age.

The morning rays of the sun that warmed the courtyard, with its blossoming morning glories did nothng to ease his anger. With each heavy foorstep he strided across the massive hallways of marble, lined with gold and draps of the finest silk curtains in the land. Guards in heavy armor stood at attention, thier rifles at thier sides at the sight of thier Lord and Master. The journey to his court was a long one, and he prided himself in it. The longer it took to get there meant the more you have to boast when it comes to land and wealth. Many had understood that. Oh yes. Especially those feeble kingdoms who dared cross-swords with him during his invasions. The king knew nothing of them, of course. He managed a laugh, and his journey came to an end outside a huge gate, more of fine crafted oakwood and enforced steel than an entrance to his court. But being the richest of the four Lords was not enough. It never was. He had an ambition, and he knew the methods he had to undergo to get it. He pushed the heavy gates open, and entered, entering only to find his court already in sesson.

At every corner of the grand hall, his elite guards, the Knights of MoonGlade, stood at attention at his arrival, their swords held close by their side, ready to defend their master shall the need arise. His subjects, mostly of currupted ministers and bishops, a selected group of no more than twenty of his own men, were busy discussing a matter, as if he were not present.

'But won't it be a little harsh, I mean...' said the first minister.
'Oh come on now, really... It not like we haven't done it before.' said the second, waving his hands in the air.
'He's right. Somehow we need to teach these pheasents thier place! That will teach them to start another rebillion, won't you say, General? ...General?'
The general was about to speak, but bowed at the sight of his lordship. The others followed, nervously shifting thier tunics uneasily.

Phillip stood there, gazing at them as thought about to errupt. But he saved it. He had better things to take care of. He crossed the hall, ignoring the rest of the contraband, and took his seat at the throne, the crest of the moon glowing brightly in the morning sun.
'It has come to my attention...' he started, taking his time. He loved the effect he had on his subjects.
'...that some of the people present, are beginning to forget their places as well.' The first minsiter looked down, trying hard not to look guilty.
'No matter. We shall deal with matters of meagre importances later. Now, report! Report!'

The ministers took theirs, submitting report after report on the current situations of the South County. Phillip paid little attention, but stopped short when it came to a report on another burnt village near the borders.

'....reported that the casualties were unknown. But the attackers left in a hurry, milord. We sent the scouts to pursue them on horsebacks, but they were long gone into the forests. Interestingly enough, the flames were that engulfed the village, milord.... it was.... well, blue. And the dead pheasents all died in a similar manner. All were slashed in multiple ares, mostly near the head. No one survived.'

Phillip was glum. He bit his bottom lip. He knew what he heard was pointing to the same manner, but he could not risk another humiliation, at least not untill he has enough proof.
'Halo, rise.'
The general rose, and approched Phillip, his head still bowed.
'How long would it take to prepare a regiment?'
The general looked uncertain, but answered, 'Two days at the least milord. The knights are still at war with the rebels at the borders of the Middle Kingdoms, and our castle guards are the only avalable forces at such short notice. I could send a messenger to the front, and....'
'No. I want those thorns out of my sight as soon as possible. It would take too long... How about my nephew?'
The general looked up this time.
'Prince Wai Kit? He is at the mountains of Oddessy at his training, milord.'
'Summon him, and prepare an army of ten calvary. Send him to the forest of Norshire as soon as possible.'
'Send the Prince to find the beast..'
He looked around. The ministers looked at him, confused?
The general apporoached Phillip and shispered, 'Send Wai Kit to find the beast, sire? But he is too young!'
'Its about time my nephew saw some action instead of reading about it from some old haggard in the mountains.'
'But my leidge, the late Lord specifically orderd that...'
'Don't remind me about my brother, general! He should be happy I'm filling in for him, what more looking after his son! Now, gather the troops, and I want him on a horseback and on his quest by nightfall! Do you understand!?'
The general retreated, bowing. He knew that Prince Wai Kit was the rightful heir to the throne, but since the late Lord William died of a mysterous disease, he had named Phillip the next heir, until Wai Kit was of age. But all in the South Lands knew it was no disease. Phillip had murderd his brother, and sent the prince away to a faraway mountain to learn from some old goat. But that was a rumour. No one dared say a word of it.

After the proceedings were over, General Halo took to the stables, whilst the rest of the minsiters and bishops returned to their live of pleasure and luxury. His family had served the House of Mok for many generations, all pledging thier oath to protect thier Lord and Master. But ever since Phillip was Lord, it was hard to tell if that if services were of any importance any longer. Pihillip preferred to indulge in women, wine and festivities, while his people suffered in hunger and poverty. But he had no choice. He was tied on the bonds set by his ancestors unto the founders of this land, and that was something he had grown up to learn and guard with his life. The only hope he had, was for the Prince to be safe so he could return the South County to her peaceful and prosperous self once more.

He walked a series of complicated stairways and corridors, until finally arriving at the stables outside the castle's gardens. The House of Mok was enormous, and anyone could easily get lost within its grounds without a proper guide. But he didn't need a guide. Not an old-timer like himself. He turned the lock of the door twice clockwise, once anti-clockwise, and another twice twice clockwise, and it gave way. Why wouldn't it? He pushed the heavy doors open, and was greeted by the only friends he had within the castle grounds.

The stallions were magnificannt. Each carefully handpicked from the best breeders, and fed with the best wheat and sweet hay. Even the water they drank was from the peaks of Mount Oddessy, said to be the purest and can boost the vitality of the soul. The stallions were called Dark Night, for they were swift and quick and the South calvary prided themselves in being thier riders. Their speed was unmatched, and whats more, they were as silent as night. They could sneak up on the enemy in the night in massive numbers, without ever being noticed or spotted by the sentinels.

Halo sighed, and patted their nozzles as he passed each one of them. He had helped trained them all, and every one turned out to be strong, fit and ready for battle. Especially one. It outshown the rest in terms of agility and strength, and can run for days without even a drop of water. It was called Whirlwind. He didn't bestow that name on the stallion, however. Prince Wai Kit had spotted the young faul when he accompanied his uncle out hunting, and saved it from a raging wolf. His uncle was furious, but let the young price keep it, providing he left for Mt Oddyssey at the age of twelve. The young prince eagerly accepted the proposal, and tended to it like a mother towards her son. The faul grew up to be strong, and accompanied the prince wherever it went, often letting him pat its nossle and feed it apples. It loved apples, as much as the young prince. Once, when the prince fell ill in the stables, the horse galloped all the way to the court to get their attention. It got a good whipping, but the prince was saved, at the least.

The general opened the stable doors, and Whirlwind galloped forward. It seemed happy to see him. The old general took out a piece of an apple from his breafast, and fed it. It munched it up right up, neighing with joy. Seeing the horse was like staring at the prince. The general sighed. He had always loved the young prince, and ever since Lord William passed on, the young lad's smile was never seen again. He felt sorry for him. If only there was a way to cheer him up. It was rather unlikely now, with Lord Phillip wishing for the prince to go on another pointless crusade. The prince was turning 18 next month, and the general was worried that Lord Phillip would try something to retain his throne.

He patted the horse one more time, and reached for the saddle. Whirlwind stood still as the general equipped the horse, and then, they galloped off. The guards opened the gates at the sight of the general, and saluted, as he raced down the stony passage that lead to the forest of Norshire.

What he didn't realise, was the shadow that was observing him the whole time from behind the rose bushes. Its bloodshot eyes blinked, and with one last flap of its wing, reached into the skies after the general, the cursed violet symbol of the Succubus clearly visible on his left shoulder. The guards at the gates gasped at the sight of the demon, but with one lowly cry, felt blood gushing out of thier slithered throats, as two more demons appeared from the shadows.

That night, a storm spread throughout the drakness of the clouds, the shrieks and cries of anguish filling the air from the North court, its once silk curtains now tainted with the blood of Phillip and his men.

Just One More Series

I had nothing better to do. So decided to buck up on my MUET. I'm writing a fictional story based on characters from U6K, so whether its boring or not I dun care. Lolz

March Of the Succubus
Chapter 1 - The Mistake
Chapter 2 - The Stone Table
Chapter 3 - House of Mok
Chapter 4 (Part I) - Destiny I
Chapter 4 (Part II) - Destiny II
Chapter 5 - The Sun, the Bear and the Nightingale

Lolz. Feel free to give comments on the story, me open to suggestions. ^^ Enjoy them.

March of the Succubus - (Chapter 2) The Stone Table

The rain hit the windows of the Great Chamber mercilessly. There and again, clasps of thunder and the groans of Thor flashed aross the dark clouds. The high walls of the chamber were of Engraved Stone, the strongest ever built in this country of war and chaos. The Great Chamber was regarded as the High Hall of Heroes and Slayers, Knights and Kings, and who could defy such a fact? In a country where war was life and fighting was a necessity, where blood was wine and pillage was wealth, all eyes were set on entering the Great Chamber. The finest armor and the sharpest of blades ornated the walls. Parchments and records of wars, agriculture, wealth and population filled the willow shelves. And then, in the midst of it all, lie the Stone Table.

The crest of the Five Nations that form the Table severed no decorative purposes, especially in a time of great doom as this. There were five thrones that surround the Table, but tonight, only three were occupied. It is known that none of the Lords at the Stone Table knew anything of each other, not that they would ever meet. But this, at a moment as such, the king needed all the help he could get.

There was a long silence. The first to speak, wore the crest of the moon. The most powerful House to the South, the House of Mok.
'How goes the lands to the north?'
The second, bearing the cloak with the bear, glanced up towards the speaker. He was stronger and much bigger than the other two, but the people from the north counties were known for thier strength, not hier brains.
'Well. Not that the county of the South ever had an interest in,'
'Ah, what is there to say? We are the Lords of the Stone Table, it is only proper that we get along well to serve King and Country.'
'Indeed. With the money you take from the king's treasury every time you say there is war, you might have stared another empire.'
'I beg your pardon, Lord Nesh, but dire situations call for dire measures! Its not like you did anything about the plagues to the North! Our people are dying and...'
'Oh, don't get me started you ungratful bas****! Had I not placed you in this court you would have been a mere stableboy wiping the aftermaths of a horses a..'
'Enough!'

All three heads turned towards the figure who just entered the room. He was clad in a different cloak then the rest, one with a golden star. All three men stood at attention, and placed their fists above their hearts in respect.

'It is pointless to put the blame on another at this point of time. Direct your anger instead on the enemy. That is our main priority. We serve the Council and our people, and it is duty! So I do not need insulents who prefer to bicker about another's faults when we should be putting our heads together in such a crisis!'
The hall went silent, except for the laughter coming from the third Lord at the table.
'And what seems to be so funny?' asked Lord Mok in frustration.
All he got was a smile, and more laughter.
'Why, you little brat! How dare you insult the Royal House of Mok! I'll have your head if its the last...' Lord Mok drew his sword and lunged at the stranger.
There was a blinding flash of light, and the rapier in Lord Mok's hands was thrown to the ground, and plundged just inches from his embroided cloak.
'If I were you, Lord Mok, I'll think twice before challenging Lord Robson. Now put that fork of yours away before you poke your eye out.'
Lord Mok, dumbfounded, looked at the young man who just beat him at his best game. The cloak was of low-chipped linen, and there, in the middle of it, bore the crest of the sun. The House of Robson. The Lords of the West who never lost crossing swords, or would rather die than to face such a defeat.
'I... I wasn't ready.... Another time, perhaps...' Lord Mok stuttered, replacing his jeweled rapier inside its holder.
Lord Robson did the same, smiled cheekily, and bowed, before returning to his portion of the table.

'That would be enough for today. Now, shall we get on with the more biting matters? So... wait. Where is the Lord of the East?'

'That would be me.'
All eyes gazed upon the chandelier. There, upon its candles, another cloaked figure rested his head on the chains that held it together, and looked down towards the Stone Table. The cloak was of silk, and within it, the crest of a Nightingale. The House of June. The sons of the Crusaders to the East.

'Ah... Lord of June, please, join us,'
'I prefer my name, Jun, if you may, your highness,'
'Then Jun it is. A charming lad, I see. How goes the war with the barbarians?'
'All is well, your majesty. Your kindness I shall forward unto my men.'
'Then I await the good news from the front. Now for the bitter news, as it has already seems to be an evil has been unleashed in every corner of my country. I need to know if this is true....'

Lord Mok was the first to rise before the king could finish.
'Pardon me your highness, but I think I can clear those doubts. A fortnight ago, come the seventh night of May, my scouts reported an attack on a nearby village along the rivers of Marcedona. We initially assumed an invasion by the barbarians, but when we got there, who, or what attacked the village was nowhere to be seen. But the destruction it left behind, milord.... was unspeakable. Almost eveything in its path was devastated, and the villagers were all left dead. Not a single soul survived. My men had the village inspected, but what we found was impossible to be true. There were footprints your majesty. Prints of giants! And there were traces of smaller prints, your highness. Inhuman. It seems the monster is getting help from somewh....'

'Utter nonsense! your highness' Lord Nesh stood.
'There are no such things as monsters! Especially in a kingdom of peace such as ours! What you saw could have been a mere raging beast, or barbarians of some sort!'

'I am sure of what I saw! But I assure you, milord, that my men and I can easily hunt it down and...'
'Oh, for heaven sakes just admit that you couldn't handle a bunch of bear-skin cladded monkeys throwing sticks and rocks at your men!'
'Oh, the nerve! Had you been there you'll would have...'
'Silence!'

Both men sat down at once.
'Can you not understand the severity of this situation? My people are dying, and I care not who or what is causing this. I want them caught, and executed! Do I make myelf clear?'
'Yes, your majesty...'

'If I may, your highness,' Lord Jun rose, bowing in such a gesture that made Mok and Nesh uneasy, as if taunting them.
'I have heard of such a beast before. Lord Mok, if the flames engulfing the village red, or blue?'
Lord Mok looked at Lord Jun, rather taken aback.
'How'd you...'
'Answer me, please. Was it blue?'
'Y.. Yes..'
'Then it seems that Lord Mok hasn't been telling the whole truth, your highness.'
Lord Mok was silent.
'And did you happen to find the traces of feathers of any kind?'
'Feathers? What do you mean by... wait... there were feathers of some sort, but they were red, so I thought they were merely birds'...'
'Then my suspicions are confirmed, your higness,' Lord Jun said.
'What is it, Jun?' asked the king.

'A succubus'
All eyes were turned now towards Lord Robson.
'Oh, so the guy's not a deaf, eh?' mocked Lord Mok, and gave a laugh.
'Its a demon. A winged-demon. A lengendary beast said to have wiped out the entire of our father's lands.'
'The succubus? But I thought it was only a legend and...'
'Yes it is,' added Lord Jun.
'There was a prophecy made by the priests of the Oracle. That an evil of old will once again be unleashed unto this land, and everything in it will be no more than ash and dust. Until the souls of a thousand men are turned to ghouls, and until the hearts of all that is good and pure are drained and tainted with the blood of the damned.'

The king fell back in his throne.
'So its true then? This monster.... it exists?'
'Not only does it exist, milord. But they say that it can be awaken by a fool who dares to seek its wretched soul. Apparently, there is a band of brothers, milord, a cult, that protects this demon.'

'The Keepers'
All eyes turned to Lord Robson again. Lord Mok rolled his eyes.
'Yes, milord. They call themselves, The Keepers. It is said that they possess the succubus's bloodline, and cannot die. In other words, they are immortal.'
'More nonsense! And how can you prove that such a monster exists, Lord Jun? Or is this another one of your charms to hoax the king into believe another of your tell-tales?' yelled Lord Nesh.
'I... cannot. But I assure you that it is true, milord.'
'Hah! Words of an ignorant fool! Save your breath for the undertakings, Lord Jun! I say we gather the army and set out to find these barbarians before they go rampaging through more villages!'
'They are not barbarians, Nesh! This monster exists! I've read the prophecy myself, and its true!'
'Quiet! quiet! The last thing I need is more problems in my court!'

Just then, there was a knock on the door.
'Yes, who is it?'
'It is I, father.'
'Ah, yes yes. Open the gates.'
The doors creaked open, and there, clad in a night-gown, the lovely princess made her way into the court.

Everyone at the Stone Table stood, except the king.
'Pardon me, my Lords, for my way of dressing. It is rather late. Dawn will come soon, and I come to ask for my father to get some rest.'
'No! No! Not at all!' said Lord Mok, almost too quickly. Lord Nesh forced a laugh.
'Its alright dearest, I shall go to bed soon. We have important matters to discuss.'

'Or instead, why not join us at court? I'm sure we have room for the daughter of King Wye.'
Lord Robson stood, offering his seat. This made the princess blush.
'And may I know the fair name of such a lovely maiden?'
'Wan-yi. Princess Wan-yi.'
'Then I pledge my loyalty and life to serve the beautiful princess Wan Yi.'
This made Lord Mok very unhappy. He clenched his fists, waiting for the opportunity to rid this ignorant brat from his sight.

Lord Robson remained standing, as the princess made herself comfortable on his seat, before the king could pretest.
'King Wye, I can prove Jun's stands.'
'Lord Mok stood up this time.
'That's it. I've had enough of you, you ingrate! You march into this court, disgrace the name of my House, and now you want to act a know-it-all? I condemn you, Lord Robson! Draw your sword before I draw mine!'
Lord Robson stood up slowly, not letting his sight off Lord Mok.
Lord Mok drew his rapier, pointed it directly at Lord Robson, and, without warning, struck. He fought with such speed that impressed even the king.
'I have you now, you son of a dog!'
And with one slash, he ripped the cloak Lord Robson was wearing in half.
'Touche' Lord Robson replied, and drew the sword in retreat.
'Hah! The House of Robson! I laugh at your ancestors! What a claim. The Unbeaten Swordsmen! Hah! I...'
and with that, Lord Mok fell into unconsiousness. The princess was both stunned and amazed.

'He was fast, I can tell you that,' said Lord Jun. 'But against the speed of a Robson bladesmen, he is childs-play. Sorry bout the cloak, though.'
Lord Robson smiled, 'Like you said, he was fast.'
He reached into his pouch, and unveiled something covered with cow-hide.
'Shouldn't we erm... eh.... wake Lord Mok... or....' said Lord Nesh, his eyes cautiously staring at the tip of Lord Robson's blade.
'No, he has earned his rest. Stubborn fools is what I require the least at such moments.' the king said. 'Now, show me what you bring unto this court.'

Lord Robson carefully unwrapped the package, and within it, lie a skull.
'This skull... looks... unusual,' said Lord Nesh.
'Indeed. I have had the literates check on it. It seems that this is not a skull of a human. At least it no longer is.'
'What do you mean, no longer?'
'As you could observe, milord, this skull is too huge to be a person's head. But, it used to be. The excess joints around the skull, are, well... forced.'
'I don't understand.'
'In other words milord, this head grew,' said Lord Jun. 'It grew against the will of nature and the will of God. This skull, is cursed.'
'And prove do you have that it is as you say?' said Lord Nesh, eager to regain some respect from the court.
'Look closely at the back, before the jaws. Can you see it?'
'See? See what?' said Lord Nesh.
'All I see are cracks, Robson. What does all this mean?' said the king.
'Sire, if I may, I want you to take a good look at this mark over here.'
He placed the skull under the light of the candle, and what happened next stunned everyone in the court.

There, behind the skull, was a crack that looked like nothing at first, but when the shadows from the burning light of the candle appeared on the wall, there was the sign, of the Succubus, the winged-demon.