Chapter Two:

Lord Edward of Didyme sat on his throne, awaiting in the dark night for word from his soldiers.

"Vladimir!" he called out to his servant.

The young lad rushed quickly to his royal's side. "Yes, my Lord?"

"Where are my men? They should have returned by now!" Lord Edward said impatiently.

"The providences are fielded with death. If lurking predators hadn't caught them by now, then surely the plague has. You sent them on a death mission, if I may be so honest," Vladimir replied with a bow.

"Predators? I rule every kingdom of this land! Afton, Corin, the Fortress of Hale...I should be called Lord of the World! There are no predators. We have slain every man with a five thousand mile-"

"I meant the Beasts of the Night," Vladimir corrected. "The animals. They ravage flesh with their bare teeth before their victim even has the chance to scream in terror."

"Oh. Well...yes. The Beasts." Lord Edward agreed. "Perhaps I should go find them. It shouldn't be taking them this long..."

"My Lord! You cannot go out like a commoner! You have killed many, but not all. It is not possible. And if anyone finds out you are seeking the Sculpia-"

"Hush!" Lord Edward berated angrily. "We will not speak of this out loud."

He pulled Vladimir so close, his servant smelled the wine upon his breath. "I dreamt of her in my visions, Vlad. I know she exists. The mark upon her back is a sign from the goddess Nuhuel. She has been piercing my every thought. Do you have any idea what will happen if our adversary from the North hears of this miracle? They will tear her apart by her bosom!"

With regal movement, Lord Edward pushed Vladimir to the side, and stood up. His green eyes pierced his surroundings, filled with lush tapestry and vibrant colors, all banned from the providences.

"Gather me my things, servant! We leave in five breaths of the hour."

Vladimir did as he was told, and with great regret. There was no such thing as the Sculpia. The great curse had spread throughout all the lands, making every female, even newborns and those to be birthed, barren and unable to bear fruit.

He had come to his senses, knowing he would never have children.

He just wished his friend and master would do the same.