Ju-Won's brow beaded with sweat as he walked the palace grounds. His constitution had always been weak since he was a young boy. The duties and weight of being the Crown Prince caused him to be even weaker.

A group of eunuchs and servants trailed behind him as he walked to his room. His beautiful but solemn face made them pity him.

Pity surrounded Ju-Won. His mother had died giving birth to him. He had also been afflicted with visions and terris at night since his birth. He's cursed. Death follows him everywhere. Don't get too close.

His father, The Emperor, hardly ever summoned him or looked at him more than necessary. He was only the Crown Prince because he was the only heir the old man had.

Ju-Won stopped in front of his room that sat on the opposite side of the palace as the Emperor's. Just more proof of how unfavored he was to the man.

"You may all leave. I wish to be alone this evening," his soft voice ordered.

The group made themselves scarce. No one liked to be around him longer than they had to in fear of gaining bad luck from him.

Ju-Won squeezed his eyes shut as he could hear the voices begin to stir. They were low, raspy, and terrifying. He knew if he opened his eyes, he would be able to see them as well. Grotesque creatures. Shadows. Sometimes there wasn't even anything to see. But they were always there. Screaming at him and demanding things of him.

Ju-Won opened his eyes. A fatal mistake. In front of him sat the body of his mother who died long ago during his birth.

"Please," his soft, utterly terrified sob filled the room. "Someone please help me."