Malefica Saga

by Flurry of Freezing Flames

The world of Malefica has been embroiled in an endless war between Demons and the native inhabitant races of Malefica. When his father is killed and the prince Nicklas Celondia takes the throne, an epic tale about multiple love and the determination to stop a war will blossom. Rated M for mostly language, depictions of nudity and sex and violence. Also, possible triggers.

A/N: Here I am with another story, but this time? It's all my personal fucking idea. Get ready for an absolutely insane ride including kings, Demons, Angels (eventually we'll get there) and a giant harem that- for once- doesn't include alternate dimensions to accomplish. I hope someone enjoys. Also, check out my DeviantArt account of ChocoboFarron2012 for quite literally every bit of lore I have created so far, with pictures to accompany most of it! Good day!

Prologue

Sudden.. Consequences?

Malefica, a world once at peace. That time, however, is long past, as the world has been embroiled in a war between the people who called this world home and the darkest breeds of demonkind. Taking losses from all sides early on, the countries of the world combined their war efforts into a single union known as the Malefica Guardianship. Initially this included the humans on both sides of the ocean that separated their kingdoms, the Galwin Empire and Falconia Republic respectively, the elves of the southern forests of Kai-el, the continent the Falconia Republic stood, the beastmen that- presently- stood with only a couple hundred members of their race, and most of those were such hybrids as deer, rabbits with the occasional big cat or wolf sprinkled in. Then there were the Aquatins, the race of Malefican beings that were hybrids of humans and various marine life and the toughened-by-circumstance desert dwelling Rija from the Kypt Oasis.

Not too long after the war started, the demons began infiltrating the other cultures of Malefica, the humans found most susceptible to being deceived by such and with that, the demons could- and would- use that to deceive the other races more easily when available. Thus began the Eternal Demon War. However, the members of these breeds of demonkyn such as the Succubi, Draconius, Kitsune and a few other tribes decided the humans were not all that bad. Such as that the Succubi had to isolate themselves to their own city in the sky after several years, more and more of the Succubi mixing bloodlines with the other races in such numbers that overpopulation and loss of control could have been imminent. The Draconius, in response, also moved to their own more isolated city, but they continued to socialize with everyone else.

The Eternal Demon War, as the people began to call it, persists due to the almost unkillable nature of the demons, or at least the level of preparation needed to truly destroy the evil creatures. That doesn't stop the fighting from continuing to ravage the land, swaths of farmland rendered unusable due to the damage more powerful demonkyn could dish out. Excursions have been sent worldwide, trying to find the original entry point for the demons into Malefica, the races previously belonging to the horde unable to remember such knowledge themselves.

The current King of the Falconia Republic, Elias Celondia, has trained his son and only Heir Nicklas in every art of fighting the demons he could bestow upon the boy, even outsourcing such tutelage by way of the Draconius and Kitsune. On the other side of the separating ocean, Galwinian Prince Leo has undergone similar tutelage, in addition to that of the Holy Knights Galwin had- since the Guardianship's formation- become famous for producing. However, a battle will soon take place that will change everything.

Tragedy brings hope..

Continent of Kai-el, Slipstream Fields, Fifty Miles East of Falconia City..

The two young men, dressed in similar yet different outfits that screamed nobility, rushed each other, swords raised in their hands. The one, a man with messy black hair holding a longsword with a serrated edge, grinned as the blade changed against the black steel of his opponent's blade. "Give it up, Leo. You're not getting the upper hand here."

His opponent, the now named Leo, chuckled. "Not this time, Nick. Not even that damn uncanny luck that Kitsune charm you always carry will stop me from winning."

"Bring it on, then." Nick said as he pushed forward, breaking the lock on their blades as he jumped backward, using one hand to bounce himself back to his feet, now several feet away from Leo as the sparkle of magic began forming in Nick's unarmed hand. Burn. He thought as the sparkle turned into a fireball the size of Nick's hand before Nick lobbed it at Leo, the white-haired boy twisting his body out of the way of the spell.

"Hey! I thought we agreed on no magic."

"We did," Nick shrugged. "But in a real fight, the Horde isn't going to play fair like that. They will use anything and everything they can to kill you. Or worse, convert you." It was a newer action of the Demonkyn, where members of the Horde would bring an opponent to the brink of death and, due to usual human desperation, those cornered would give in and with some spell not even members of the other previously Horde-aligned races could figure out, making it seem like a newer development than their defection was. This was not the only way the Corruption- as it was called- could occur, like it had in the unfortunate case of the Rija princess Fatima about a century earlier.

"I'm not that desperate to live, even if cornered against a Demon."

"It doesn't matter, Leo. The sadism of the Horde is immeasurable and they'll do absolutely anything to make sure they win this fucking war." The two clashed again, both pushing against the other as their blades scraped against one another. "And that's why we need to make decisions as if we were Demons out on the battlefield."

"Yeah, I know, Nick. By adopting enemy tactics, it allows us to better counter their assault while also allowing us to stay one step ahead if we can't avoid an attack." Leo stated as if he was reading it from a textbook.

"At least you remember!" Nick said, exerting himself as he pushed against Leo harder, causing the ivory-haired prince to back off of him as he readied himself for another assault. "And keep Sameera out of your mouth. You're just jealous Hanako gave me a second charm. It's not my fault both Kitsune twins want me."

Sameera and Hanako Kyushu were not just Kitsune but also the technical heirs to the Kitsune Clan throne. The four of them- the twins, Nick and Leo- had all basically grown up together, both on and off the field of battle. Sameera could throw a shuriken or throwing knife and kill an enemy at almost half a mile away without any form of scoping, as well as burn them with powerful foxfire magic. Hanako, on the other hand, was a fighter proficient in martial arts and harnessed electricity-based fox magic. At least, that's what the people of Malefica called the power the Kitsune held. Leo had held a crush for the more pink-haired of the twins while Nick would admit Sameera was his first choice with her red hair.

Leo rolled his eyes. "Don't play that crap, Nick. It is kind of unfair that you have both after you, but we settled that debate last year. You won, fair and square."

Nick grinned with a laugh. "Heh. Yeah, I did. Kicked your ass right up shit's creek. Anyway, come on. That's enough for today. Father said the convoy would arrive in three days' time, and it's been three since we left Falconia. They should be here any minute, most likely."

"Ah, so it isn't because it's your girlfriends?"

Nick sighed, annoyed as he felt his cheeks heat up. "They're not my girlfriends, asshole. Although, with how things are, I'm surprised not, as rare as it is for a Kitsune to take a mate of a human." Let alone both heirs to the Kitsune throne wanting the same one..

"Yeah, that's true. You'd have great luck with an Aquatin, if you could find the right one for you." Leo laughed as he ducked under another fireball thrown at him by Nick. Or so he thought until a new voice sounded.

"Can it, Snowball. I'll take your eye out if you piss me off, Leo!" Said Sameera Kyushu as her and her twin sister Hanako stood at the top of the hill, along with several others. Each of the sisters had four tails each, which at their age was almost unheard of even within the Noble families within the Clan. Sameera was dark-skinned, like their father Zairus while Hanako had a lighter complexion like their late mother Yuna, as well as different hair colors, red and purple respectively.

Leo held his hands up with a grin. "Understood, your Highness. Not to worry, the twin heirs of the Kitsune shall not be harmed as long as the combined might of the prince of Galwin," Leo looked at Nick with a smirk. "And I guess Celondia's here, too. His Highness the King Celondia will be along by the end of the day. He had some urgent matters to attend to before departing Falconia City."

"The fuck are you telling them the report about my father, for, idiot?" Nick said, pinching his nose in annoyance.

Leo just smirked back at him. "I'm your brother in all but blood, Nick. It's my job to mess around with you." He laughed as Nick rolled his eyes, the girls giggling behind their hands.

"Whatever. How was your trip, ladies?" Nicklas said with a sigh, leveling a smile at the twins. "No trouble getting through the mountain pass this time, I hope?" The nearby mountain pass that led towards the Kitsune's home village was notorious for Demon attacks, most likely some draw to the Kitsune's power with their similar origins.

"It went just fine, nothing a bit of foxfire can't fix, Nicky." Sameera said, summoning a fireball to her hand and then dismissing it.

"Yeah, the Demons in that area are either slacking, or starving. Neither is too great an outcome." Hanako added with a shrug.

"Neither is Corruption. As it stands, no one can explain how Fatima got afflicted back then."

The group became silent until Nick decided to break the conversation for some food, knowing the twins would be hungry by the time they arrived at the fields.

Later..

The sounds of horses clapping down the road made Nicklas, Leo, Sameera and Hanako look in the direction of the noise to see Nick's father Elias at the reins as the horse stopped close by. "Greetings, father. All is good at home, I hope?"

The king of Falconia's face furrowed into a frown as he hummed. "Not as good as we would like, I'm afraid. It seems the Corruption has slipped through the barrier around the city. Several families in the outer reaches have already been quarantined or destroyed indefinitely."

Nicklas cursed, running a hand through his hair. "Fuck, that can't be good at all. The barrier is supposed to hold that crap back and out of our cities. Of course, we don't know exactly what the real vector of the affliction is. I said it before, even as far back as Fatima of the Rija no one can tell how she contracted the Corruption."

Sameera and Hanako nodded. "We'll figure it out one day, Nicky. And when we do, no one will suffer that fate again. It was bad enough when it happened at that unprotected orphanage.." Yes, the Demons had even attacked an entire orphanage with the Corruption affliction, and it almost brought Galwin to its knees by the time anyone really knew what was happening. Not even the younger children were spared such a fate..

Everyone present got a shiver down their spines at the mention, the younger four not even being born yet when it had happened. But it was the reality that anyone could fall to the Corruption that scared the younger generation. "I can only hope. I don't want to rule a kingdom scared of its own shadows because of the Demon Horde and their fucked up sense of battle tactics."

"It is effective, however, and no one can deny that." Elias said, earning morose nods from the four. "Anyway, enough about the troubles of Falconia. Girls, what news from your father?"

Sameera smiled at the monarch, grateful for the sudden change in tone and conversation. "He says the efforts to travel across the eastern sea are going well, but I know theres been minor issues there, as well. He's hopeful the latest expedition will finally breach the Eternal Whirlpool. Help from the Aquatins proficient in water magic has proven to be a big help already in the short time we have been collaborating. May I ask, your Majesty, why we're trying to get past that whirlpool? Geographers on both continents have said there's nothing else out there."

Elias chuckled. "It would seem that way, but I've learned in my years on the battlefield that you never overlook something that might be important. The fact the Eternal Whirlpool has never stopped in the seventy-odd years it has been monitored. Add in that any ship that tries to go in fauls, but the ships are damaged in ways that water wouldn't allow to the steel of our latest ship models. Hence why it seems like that whirlpool is in fact hiding something. Or, perhaps, an entirely new race removed from our conflict. Right now, only time will tell."

"Father said something similar, but I guess that's to be expected." Leo said, his arms crossed over his chest. "The real issue is that, if the whirlpool does indeed hide another civilization, then.. why would they just jump the gun and attack?"

"Because they would have no reason to trust us, would they? We regularly try to breach their wall between outside conflict and themselves. It would seem like we were no better than the Horde at that end." Sameera said, Hanako nodding like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Elias considered the girl's words, stroking his beard in thought. "Yes.. I can see where you're coming from with that. Indeed, we would seem like the Horde did to us all those centuries ago. But how could we get through without the hostilities, then?"

"Maybe.. Can we send a messenger falcon or something? Olive branch, of sorts."

Elias nodded. "Maybe. Anyhow, come, children. It's a day or two journey to the Oasis." The group of humans and Kitsune were heading to the Oasis of Kypt to speak with the Rija Queen, Nashrah, about whether or not she required any assistance in her new role as Queen, having only inherited the title from her own mother very recently due to the ex-Queen's death during the latest battle against the Horde a fortnight earlier.

"Coming, father, but are we all really walking the whole way there? You only brought your horse."

"Of course. It'll build character. You aren't ready to be king yet, son."

Nicklas rolled his eyes. "As you love reminding me. You might as well jinx yourself about it. You aren't immortal, father."

"It pleases my old soul to see you so compassionate, Nicklas. Your mother would be proud of you."

Nicklas smiled widely. His mother, the former Queen Teresa, had been widely beloved by the kingdom of Falconia, even if Nick knew of plenty of eyes wandering to his mother from townsfolk in more unsavory ways when he was but a child traveling about town with her. In respect to her death, Nick hadn't gone forward with outing those who had. The death of Queen Teresa had made Nicklas look to his kindness to keep her memory alive, and it worked even if Nick was watched by just as many eyes as his mother, all the while the young Prince was oblivious to such things. "Alright, fine I guess. Let's just get to Kypt. The scenery is always so nice there, for such a harsh place."

Sameera and Hanako wore identical pouts as they both crossed their arms across their chests, Leo speaking up. "Are you sure it's just the scenery? Pretty sure the entirety of the Rija race are too hot not to look at."

"Leo, shut up if you know what's good for you. Two Kitsune are looking at you with murderous intent." Nicklas laughed as Leo dodged several small fireballs Sameera sent his way as the group's journey to the Oasis of Kypt began.

Falconia Castle Library, Falconia City..

The twenty-four year old Head Librarian of Falconia Castle Lumiya Shale sighed as she twisted a strand of her short red hair around one finger, her thoughts stuck on the handsome Prince that had saved her life, leading her to her current post at the castle. She startled, her glasses falling onto her desk as another voice joined her in the empty library. "Thinking about little Nicky again?" Asked twenty-six year old Velma Faye, the in-castle Potioneer as the blue-haired woman sat down with the redhead.

Lumiya frowned with a small nod. "It gets harder not to, the longer he isn't around."

"This is true. I'm envious of those Kitsune twins, though. Smoking hot and already practically with Nick despite his refusal of such notions? Ugh, I'd show him if he let me jump onto that obvious monster he hides in his pants." Velma's cheeks flushed as her face morphed into a lecherous grin.

Lumiya's face flushed a much darker brown than her regular tone as she covered her ears. "Holy damn, Velma! Don't just say that!"

"Why not? You've seen it, haven't you? When he thinks you're not looking while he obviously is? How many times have you found yourself about to do something potentially idiotic in front of him?"

"You mean like you do? Stumbling your words into sexual innuendo all the time without even seemingly thinking? Never." All too often.. Lumiya thought, her words spoken in denial.

Velma just giggled in response. "Whatever, Miya. Just answer the question, then. Do you want Nick to absolutely ravage you in bed? Yes or no?"

"Yes! Gods, a million times, yes! But I have no chance when he's been promised to the eldest of the Kitsune twins."

"While that is true, you always still have a chance. It's not ideal, not by a long shot really, but if something happens to his Majesty before Nick's coronation in one week's time, then the Governor's Board can and probably will enact the Family Restoration Clause, being the last living member of the Celondia dynasty at that point."

Lumiya grimaced. "The FRC? You mean the Governors enacting Nick for.. No, they wouldn't with Sameera and/or Hanako involved already."

"Maybe they won't, but I hope so, honestly. Like that young man can truly resist either or both of our charms. If you put yours to use, at least."

That made Lumiya frown again. "Oh, get out of here, Velma. Go brew your little potions and leave me out of your perverted schemes, no matter how much I may indeed want them played out as well."

Velma smirked as she walked towards the door. "Oh, believe me. I have a potion brewing no one will see coming, but those involved will absolutely love." With a potentially sinister giggle, the blue-haired witch left the library for good, leaving Lumiya alone with her thoughts. Ones which saw her shaking her head and messing her hair up as she groaned, unable to get the image of Nick laying over her out of her head.

You better hope what she said doesn't come to pass, Nicky, Lumiya thought with a scrunched up nose. Otherwise who knows what she'll be brewing up to further along such things. The Rija woman held her shoulders as a shiver spread through her body, an ominous sign of bad tidings if there ever was.

Several Miles From the Oasis of Kypt, a Day and a Half Later..

Things have surely gone to shit. Nicklas thought as he managed to deflect two separate but quickly successive attacks from the Demon's razor sharp claws they sported for nails, it's red eyes boring into Nick's very soul as it spoke chillingly. "You are such a young one. But such potential. You would do well as a member of the Horde."

Nick felt the tingling that he attributed to the Demons but otherwise had no idea as to why he felt the sensation. All he knew was that whenever he was around one, the feeling came back like every cell in Nicklas' body screamed to strike back at the nearly unstoppable foe. "No thanks. I rather like my identity, thank you. But I can happily arrange for you to go back to wherever it is you hellspawn come from, tail between your legs in a rather unfavorable way."

"Heheh. Tough talk for such a young human. I wonder.. If I tear your insides out, will you still be able to talk such a big game?"

"If you think this fight is just a game, then you've already lost!" Nicklas pushed the Demon back, adding distance with a secondary kick to the Demon's chest.

Staggering back, the Demon growled as there was a sudden scream that echoed throughout the battlefield, making everyone stop their attacks as all eyes, Demon, Kitsune, Human and even the Rija that had since joined the battle looked towards the source of the sound. "It seems your side has lost this battle already, little princeling. Too bad, I was just starting to have some fun." With a menacing smirk, the Demon vanished, shimmering into thin air as the rest of the sudden attacking force followed suit.

With the now battlefield practically empty, Nick saw just what had happened as he screamed in anguish at the sight of Elias, lying in a pool of his own blood and his heart still pulsing even while outside of the King's chest as it lay on the hot sand. Nick couldn't hear anything as his mind reeled and focused on his father's now lifeless corpse, only regaining any sense of self when he felt a hand on his shoulder. Expecting Leo or one of the twins, he instead found the current Rija Queen, the seventeen year old girl smiling sadly at him. "I'm so sorry, your Highness. It seems your time on the throne is at hand. Us here at the Oasis will always be there for you, just as your father was there for the Rija since my grandmother ruled this city. Come, stay in the Oasis for the night. Tomorrow, I'm sure there will be much to speak about."

Now feeling just how hard he must have been crying as the pounding in his skull began becoming more of a drum beat than a slow throb. In his grief, Nick couldn't help but wrap his arms around the beautiful young Queen, sobbing into her shoulder as the rest of the people gathered began making their way to the Oasis. Even if it had just been the one death, that was enough to turn the mood of everyone sour and no one wanted to be out in the desert by the corpse of King Elias Celondia any longer.

By that evening, the news about the passing of Elias Celondia had effectively spread throughout all corners of Falconia as well as Galwin on the opposite shore of the Middean Sea. Nicklas and the rest of his small group had taken up residence at Nashrah's home for the night, as she had offered the prince earlier. That was where he now found himself, on the balcony of the room the Rija Queen had shown him herself.

Looking out at the expanse of desert stretching to the moonlit horizon, Nick didn't hear the door to his room open or close, nor did he know anyone was with him until he heard Nashrah's somewhat soft voice. "Are you finding your room accommodating, your Highness?" She asked as she went to stand next to Nicklas, their difference in height now noticeable as Nashrah had to look up somewhat just to meet the gaze of Nick's eyes. It didn't help that Nashrah was a head or so shorter than the average Rija.

Nick looked over at her, eyes seemingly focusing on her as he frowned. "Huh? Oh, the room is great, Nashrah. Thank you for the hospitality, you didn't have to take us in for the night."

The young queen just smiled softly. "It is no trouble, Nicklas. Your father always extended the hand of peace and hospitality with my people, therefore my people must share that back with you. Especially in such trying times. Are.. Are you alright?"

"I'm not. I should have been closer to him. This.. this surge of power I get whenever I'm pitted against a Demon, it.. I need to know what it is, why I couldn't save my father.."

Nashrah frowned as she spotted the tears starting to run down Nick's face, confusion evident towards this ability not many knew about the Prince, although Nashrah knew. Nicklas had confided in her about it on a few occasions when she would visit the Falconian capital. "Your father was a hero, Nicklas. As his Heir, you are what he considered his most prized accomplishment in life. You must not let that faith and pride go to waste." The Rija placed her hand on Nicklas' cheek, caressing it as she smiled at him once again. "And I have no doubt you will be a powerful, fit king for the rest of Falconia for many, many years to come."

Nicklas sighed, gently holding Nashrah's hand as he looked out towards the desert again. "Why do you have such faith in me, Nashrah? Other than the help my father and I gave you when your mother died, bless her soul, you don't have much of a reason to help us as much as you seem to want to."

Nashrah giggled. "Yes, I can see your confusion. However, Nick, I do have something to say on the matter. While you may be correct in me maybe acting a bit more invested in your well-being than I should, it isn't my reason for helping. Repaying your father's kindness is the least I can do for you, Majesty. And, if Nabu wills it, I will follow you to the ends of Malefica."

"Nashrah, no.. You don't-" His words were cut as the shorter woman pressed herself flush against his body, their lips meeting in a surprise kiss that lasted longer than either party figured but not long enough for themselves as she broke the kiss. "Nashrah.."

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done that. I know you have eyes for that fiery Kitsune and her sister instead of this little old queen.."

Nick stopped the younger woman's retreat, grabbing her hand and making the girl look back at him, her slate blue eyes uncertain as he spoke up. "I can't lie and say I don't have eyes for the twins, but.. they really aren't the only ones. Being totally honest, I probably at least know one woman of each Malefican race that I could see myself having something with. With you, though? Your throne is a bit of an issue."

The young Queen shook her head. "I would give it up in a heartbeat, Nicklas. You especially know how I never wanted the throne. I'm not happy ruling this city, birthright be damned. The only time I feel truly happy are the moments like this, just the two of us confiding in each other. Now, come. You're grieving, I can feel your pain, Nicklas. Maybe I can help you relax some, let you get some sleep." She tugged at his arm, Nick moving along with Nashrah as she led him to the large bed in the room. "Tomorrow begins a new Era, for you, me and the rest of Malefica. Can't have the future king sleepless, can we?"

Nick chuckled. "No, I guess you're right about that. But, Nash, I'm not sleeping with you like this. Shame on the Queen for taking advantage of a vulnerable man."

"Oh, I wasn't climbing in with you. Not tonight. I just want you relaxed enough to sleep."

"Really? So is that why you're missing the cloak now?"

"It gets hot here in the desert, love. Even more so at night, the physics behind that be damned. Just remember something, Nicklas Celondia. You are loved, even after such a hard loss. Do not hesitate to talk to someone about whatever may bother you. I hope you think to come to me if you need. I'll take all your troubles away."

Nick laughed as he sat down on the bed, Nashrah kneeling down behind him as her soft, slender fingers began kneading the skin of his back. Her frustration with Nick's undershirt was quickly evident as she semi-forcefully pulled it off, her hands finding their way back to leading his back like some common house cat with a scratching post. "Mm. You're enjoying this all too much, aren't you? And you're not trying to sleep with me right now?"

Nashrah giggled, her lips ghosting kisses on Nicklas' neck. "No, not tonight. As you said, Nicklas, you're vulnerable. I won't take advantage of that, Nick. Just relax." She began humming, a tune Nick recognized from his childhood as he felt his muscles relax under the Rija woman's hands as she continued to knead his back and hum as the Prince felt his body lulled to sleep.

The Next Day, Falconia City Gates..

It hadn't surprised any of the small group that Queen Nashrah was able to arrange a fast way back to Falconia to officially begin the preparations of Elias' legacy. What was surprising was the entourage of herself, her younger sister Tiri and the personal guard of the Rija ruling party, Jali accompanying them back, her only answer when asked being to assist Nick if needed, under her veiled excuse of paying back Elias' past kindnesses.

As the carriage stopped in front of the castle and Nick and the rest unboarded, he was bombarded by two blurs knocking him back, one red and one blue. As he regained himself, he saw it was Velma and Lumiya, both teary-eyed as they looked at him, both pressing into him in a way that made Nashrah bristle as well as Sameera, Hanako just playing it off as annoyed. Stupid big tit bimbos.. Hanako thought to herself, rolling her eyes.

"Thank the Gods you're alright, Nicky!" Lumiya said as she finally broke away from him in the hug, Velma hesitating before doing the same. "We were so worried when we heard the King was dead, but we had no word of you for hours after that."

"I told her you would be fine, but you know Miya. Bigger heart than her tits." Velma said off-handedly, which made Nick chuckle.

"I'm alright, ladies. I'm sorry to have worried you. How is everyone else in there?" Nick asked them, nodding towards the castle itself.

The two older women looked at each other, sharing a nod as Velma answered him. "It's chaos, Nicklas. The Governor's have been asking about your whereabouts all night and were even trying to have someone retrieve you from Kypt until I went postal on them, saying you deserved to actually rest."

"Thank you, Nashrah. It means a lot that you made sure he was alright." Lumiya added, nodding towards the Rija Queen.

The lighter skinned Rija smiled. "It's no bother, cousin. It was the very least I could do. I'll show myself to the guest chambers. Come along Tiri, Jali." The three Raji moved towards the castle, Nashrah stopping next to Lumiya for a moment. "I see it isn't just me who cares for him. Patience, cousin." She whispered before moving again, Lumiya looking towards the Queen for a moment before turning back to the conversation.

"So they want to meet with me to discuss my now early ascension to the throne, then?" Nick said, to which Velma nodded.

"Yes, and they're anxious. Despite your very positive reception to the citizens of Falconia, they believe you may have a bounty placed on your assassination and therefore, may be killed and the Celondia dynasty ended." She snapped her fingers. "Just like that. Of course, none of us will let you go without putting up a damn good fight." She giggled, squeezing his arm. "I'm so sorry, Nicky."

"I'll be alright. I just have to live, knowing my father believed in me. To do what, exactly, I don't know but in time I'm sure the answer will reveal itself."

"Spoken like a true King." Sameera smiled, rubbing Nicklas' back. "You'll be the best Malefica has ever known."

"Not in Galwin, though. That'll be me." Leo laughed.

Nick chuckled, grateful for all his friends and loved ones and for their support in this stressful time. Now he had to go and see what the Governor's wanted of him, since he knew most of the ins and outs of ruling a kingdom, Elias having taught him plenty over the years. Nodding towards the others, he put on a brave face and walked into the castle.

Governor's Council Chamber, Castle Falconia, East Guest Wing..

The castle in Falconia City was separated into four parts, the Main Castle, the East and West Wing- where the Royal Family and their Servants as well as other castle employees would live- and the East Guest Wing, which was really a building unto itself. The Guest Wing was, in reality, just a fancy way of not saying Governor's House, since the Board liked to try and disrupt happenings in the kingdom, even when such decisions were voted upon fairly by way of the Falconia Republic's laws. The Governor's and their dailies if needed would stay there at the Castle when meetings or other important events happened, such as this with the untimely and sudden death of King Elias. Nick walked in to see the Governors all sat in their seats around the room like some odd kind of miniature courtroom. The Governors themselves were- usually- elder members of the different races with two or three at any one time representing the Beastmen since their internal species varied.

"I have arrived back from the trip to Kypt, safe and unharmed other than the bruised ego I suffered by the hands of my Demon opponent in battle. I apologize for my lack of action to stop what happened, for I know it brings shame on the great name the Celondia dynasty has made for itself over the last century and a half since we took over from the Polter dynasty."

"That will be quite enough groveling, young Nicklas. As you must know, there would have likely been little you could have done to stop your father's death. The power of a single Demon is usually much too much for just one person to take on, even one as skilled on the field of battle as your father was." Explained one Governess, Marie of the Human race. Marie was older than few of the other Governers on the Board, with red hair that was more gray than not now, or at least fading into gray. Marie was also, by blood, Nick's maternal grandmother, hence the reassurance she gave the nineteen year old. "As it stands, your coronation will be held back for a time as we allow you to grieve your father. I know your mother would behead me from the afterlife if I forced you to take the throne without some time to let your new position sink in."

Nicklas nodded. "Thank you, grandmother. But, if this meeting is to tell me I have extra time before I have to ascend to the throne, then was this all really needed?"

Marie did not answer him. Instead, the answer came from the Governor hailing from the Elven Nation, Liana. Sporting mostly grayish green hair cut into something of a bob cut, this serious-voiced Elf was much kinder than she sounded most times, and her face always reflected that in the almost constant motherly smile she wore. "Oh, young Celondia. You are wise beyond your years, speaking to your elders in such a way. Brash, at times, sometimes destructive, all typical of a human your age. But still wise, and that's why I believe you are ready for what we would like to suggest. But, that will come later. Firstly, I as well as a few of the other Governors would like to ask youbl about some.. future possible reforms. Nothing too serious, it's more of a routine with your family." Oh, that's right, Liana was also old enough where she had taught Nicklas' paternal great-grandparents in their teenage years. "Now, my question is pretty simple, I think. Once you hold the title of King, what are your plans towards the War?"

"You're right, Governess Liana, that is pretty simple. I will search out the origin point of the Horde and, if successful and that's where they hide their numbers- we'll destroy every last one of them. The Republic of Falconia- no, the whole of Malefica- has been under their threat for far too long already." Nick answered, releasing a relieved breath as the Elven Governess smiled and nodded.

"I at least would expect nothing less from Elias' son. It is a shame, really. If only I were a couple hundred years younger.." Liana giggled as the next Governor spoke up.

Governess Hawkett, the representative of the Harpies, was a very beautiful older woman with short silver hair and eyes to match. Her large brown Hawk wings fluttered by themselves behind her as she spoke. "What do you then intend to do with the allies your father has left? Young Nashrah has already expressed her.. desire to stick by you no matter what, as will most of the other local governing bodies. As we said before, you are one of the most liked amongst the nobility in all of Kai-el. But we still must exercise caution."

Nicklas nodded. "I agree, Governess Hawkett. My first priority once the throne is mine will be to go on a trip around to each settlement and speak with the local ruling bodies about any assistance they may need as well as refreshing such alliances. I know the Lamia have been having some.. issues with some of their neighbors out at Fieldstone." He said, eyes locking with the golden gaze of the serpentine eyes of the Lamia Governess, who gave him a small smirk and nod at the mention.

"Going around to the other cities across Malefica will prove to be a worthy task, I think. You can reconnect with all your friends you've made over the years and ensure that they still stand by-" Marie stated as the Governess of the Rija, Kali Holura, cut her off.

"I still believe you're hiding something, dear." Kali said to Marie, who pouted at being interrupted. "Look at yourself, Marie. How exactly can you be in your seventies, which is usually close to death for many of your kind. You, however, age at about half that rate but aren't otherwise magical or supernatural as say the Lamia or the Elves, not to mention you still act like you're just middle-aged. And then there's Nicklas' strange magnetism to the opposite sex. I mean, think about it. The prince is very popular among the ladies, even some of us present in this room." Her eyes moved about the room, settling on Liana, Morgana, as well as the Lamia and Draconius Governess' before continuing. "Hence why the decision we've come to does not sit entirely right with me until we get some answers about just what this big secret the Celondia dynasty seems to be hiding these days. Which is why I must pose this question to our young Lord. Nicklas, dearie, if any of the races allied with Falconia decide to shift such alliances away, how do you intend to deal with that?"

"It won't come to that, because I have faith in my people to trust me to get the right thing done, as my father had always taught me. A King is only as good as the faith his people have in him." Nick said, relaying a line Elias would drill into his head during his younger years.

Kali frowned, satisfied but still uneasy about the situation as the Lamia Governess, Vipera Shedstone, laughed. "Elias taught you very well, young King. I wonder, however, what Zairus will do once the decision is finalized. He'll have no Heir to the Clan if things go the way they seem to be playing out already." The woman wearing a golden dress reflecting the scale pattern she carried while in full beast form as well as elbow-length matching gloves said as she leveled her reptilian eyes at the Kitsune representative, Governess Yoko.

The black haired, golden tailed Kitsune giggled at the notion. "My little brother shall be fine. He has a group of potential successors, should the twins both decide on that. And what about you? Elias knew since Nicklas began undergoing puberty that you in particular have looked his way. Will you give up the Governess title for such?"

"It is a possibility, but probably not. Fun is fun, it doesn't have to be permanent. Unless it's mutually decided, of course." The snake woman winked at Nick with a smile that bared one finger over her bottom lip, which Nick just chuckled at.

"I'm.. Not entirely sure I'm following what we're talking about anymore." He admitted, rubbing the back of his head.

The last present member of the Board was the Draconian woman, Riela, who smiled at the Prince. The elegant dragoness pushed her long black hair behind her ear as her red eyes honed in on Nicklas. "It's cute how innocent he still acts, as if Elias and that Rija in the castle library didn't teach him literally everything to know within the kingdom. Tell me, Nicklas, how familiar are you with the Decrees only us Governors can instate?"

"Governess Riela? Um.. I know they taught me a lot about some of them, mostly ones pertaining to keeping our treaties with the other races intact. But, in all honesty we never got to cover the more rarely used ones. Why is this relevant?"

The horned woman sighed. "It seems maybe Elias did neglect to teach the young man something. Although, I wouldn't blame him. It is a big responsibility to enact such a decree."

"I really don't think this is the time to bring this up, I-"

"No, Marie. Your familial connection does not save him from this. Just be glad the second version of the decree wasn't brought forth to be enacted, as you well know what the extra conditions involved with such things are."

"Indeed I do, but what does that-"

"You would be available, Marie! Remember? Use of family is allowed with the use of certain potions and otherwise extreme cases. Since Nicklas is not limited in view to just your race, we figured you wouldn't want that particular shock."

Marie was stunned silent at the realization she almost walked into a situation she would not have been able to readily handle. "Point taken. I still feel that right now is not the time to tell him of such decisions. The boy is grieving."

"Grandmother, let them speak." Marie looked at her grandson, eyes wide. "I am grieving, and I love that you feel the need to be concerned about my mental health with other decisions being made about me, but I am a big boy. I can handle my own bad news."

Riela smiled warmly at the young human. "Very good, Nicklas. Nothing less of what I expected of you. You always were one to step up." Nick nodded, awaiting for whatever this decision was to be announced to him. "So, to get down to the real business here, even if it's the last thing we're even going over, we made a critical decision about you and the future of this kingdom. With your father dead and your only living relative being Governess Marie, the Board of Governors has declared the initiation of the Family Restoration Clause."

Nick frowned, he definitely had never heard of such a thing. "Family Restoration Clause? Father never taught me about that one. Lumiya either."

"Lumiya was sworn to secrecy about the contract when she first became your tutor." Marie said. "Knowing such things exist in cases of such extreme caution and desperation would not have been particularly beneficial to you. It would only drive your teenage boy mind to insanity. However, with your new status as the only living Celondia- myself not included as I am, as stated, too old regularly for such things- it is imperative the FRC gets off of the ground as soon as humanly possible."

"But, why would you even be co sidereal for this, grandmother?"

"I thought you were one of the brightest men of your generation? You mean to tell me you don't know why a family member could be used as a way to bring a family back from the brink of nonexistence?"

Nick had to think about it for a moment before his eyes went so wide it would make a guppy jealous as he looked at Marie, mortified but still vaguely intrigued. "Grandmother, are they talking about incest?" Marie nodded, refusing to meet Nick's eyes as he grabbed the stubble on his chin in thought. "That's gross.. But then that would mean you'd have to take fertility potions because you're past the age to regularly have children and then.." He got quiet as Marie felt his eyes on her, Nick's expression unreadable.

"Nicklas Antony Celondia! Are you actually thinking about ravishing your own grandmother in bed?!"

"No!" Nick answered immediately, although Riela could tell he was lying. It wasn't unforeseen for Nicklas to possibly look at his grandmother like that. Anyone who didn't know how old she really was would be just as eager to get a piece of the seventy-two year oldest admittedly firm ass. "It's just a bit surprising to hear of such possibilities. Has that been used before? The incest bit?"

"Once or twice, but nowhere near as often as you might want to think. Anyway, back on track. Obviously, as the subject of such a decree, there are things you'll need to know now in order to fully.. understand what it is we are asking of you, Nicklas. The only thing you can't do is say no, as the Board is above even the King in these type of situations. Are you ready to hear the terms, Nicklas?" Nick didn't answer, his eyes still hovering by his grandmother. "If you really want to I can instate the incest clause."

"No, no. That won't be necessary. Just.. What are these terms, then?"

Liana cleared her throat as she spoke up. "Firstly, there must be a minimum of one Heir on the way by the end of the first year of your rule as King. But I can guess you already figured that part out, didn't you?"

Nicklas nodded. "That would seem the most obvious out of anything, yeah."

"Good. Now, secondly, there is no outward limit to however many partners are taken, but there is a minimum of at least one per race applicable, which leaves no stone unturned in your case as you've gotten close to at least a single member of every Malefican race."

Nick opened his mouth to speak but closed it again after a second. "Wait a minute. At least one partner from each race.. Governess Liana, are you saying you've effectively activated a decree that states that I as the next King of Falconia.. erect a harem?"

The Elven governess nodded. "Very good, Nicklas. Top marks. Is such a thing an issue for you? I believe the human saying usually goes you can't have your cake and eat it, too, correct?" Nick nodded again. "This way, there would be no cake unavailable to you. But, every partner you gain must join willingly."

"I figured that much. What about if it isn't a partner locked into this harem?" Nick's eyes were now going between Riela, Vipera and Kali, refusing to go back to his grandmother's spot in the room.

The three women all smirked, sharing a look. "Well, truly there isn't a rule against it, even if said woman does indeed carry your seed afterward," Marie visibly reddened to the shade of pure crimson, knowing at least one of the other Governors would continue teasing her about such things. "Although we would advise against that, as the synasty must continue and as you well know, bastard children are not considered as part of the hierarchy in this kingdom's ruling body."

"But.. then I could hypothetically impregnate one of- let's say, you ladies-" The Governesses all looked between each other. "And then formally bring you into the harem, correct?"

Liana nodded, glad the Succubus Governess wasn't present today, or else this conversation would have gone much further south in much shorter a time. "Yes, you could. However, if it was a Giverness you sought out and seeded, then they would have to relinquish the title. We can't have too much power siphoning into the main line, even for another race."

Nick nodded. "I understand. Is there anything else I should know about this new lifestyle I'm about to jump into?" And probably really enjoy, since all my lady friends are smoking hot gorgeous, even if their older like grandmother or Governess Liana.. Nick shook his head of the impure thoughts pertaining to a gray-green haired Elf getting rammed from behind. "I would really like to go mull all of this over.."

"There is one last thing." Said Riela with another suggestive smirk. "The day after tomorrow, the announcement will be made about the reinstatement of the Family Restoration Clause. And while this isn't necessary foe the proceedings, it is preferable that, at the announcement to the kingdom, you reveal at least one of your intended partners. So I suggest you begin figuring out just what you're going to do, Nicklas. We'll be waiting for your initial decision." Although, we all know the Kitsune are top of your list, aren't they?

Nick nodded. "Understood, Governess Riela. Thank you all for explaining this all to me, and I can only sweat unto you to not fail any of you in whatever capacity that may entail. Good day, Governors." Nick took one last look at Marie, shooting an apologetic smile her way as he turned and left the Governor's Chamber.

Things were about to get interesting. Chaotic and messy, for sure, but definitely interesting.

~MS~MS~

Harem Standings:

No one present, no decisions have been finalized as of yet. That begins next time.

Next Chapter: Nicklas explains his new role to his friends and decisions will be made. Also, Demon shit because I have to include some form of villain plot line, don't I? Haha.