Inner Demon: 10000 Pieces

1|I N N ER D EMO N

A NOVEL

INNER

DEMON 10 000 PIECES 10

60

40

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50

10000

Author’s Signature X

BRACKEN MKHUMA 2|I N N ER D EMO N

Royale Books Publishers Copyright Š 2018 by Bracken Mkhuma ISBN: 978-1-7231-4633-6 Cover photo: Š Coverphotomaker / Coverphotomaker.com

Alrights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

3|I N N ER D EMO N

Acknowledgements

5

Introduction

6

1) Magic Book

7

2) Inevitable Curse

10

3) Exchange of Power

14

4) Maduna’s Encounter

18

5) The Partial Truth

22

6) Ten Thousand Pieces

26

7) Magical World

32

8) Battle Against Demons

37

9) Training with Mxolisi

42

10) Destiny

48

11) Uncommon Revelation

58

12) Ashanti The Wizard

66

13) Battle Against Lebanon

71

14) The Fulfilment Of The Prophecy

78

About the author

83

4|I N N ER D EMO N

To my mother Siphephile Mabiza without whose neverfailing sympathy and encouragement this book would have been finished in half the time.

5|I N N ER D EMO N

Warnings are meant to notify us of danger, potential harm or risk and therefore theyre meant to be obeyed. Siyabonga Mlangeni was given a very strange and mysterious book for his birthday. When he opens it up and reads the warning inside of the book, he thinks it is a joke until he is cursed.

Siyabonga ends up transforming into a demon. Now it is up to his older brother Sphamandla Langa to save Siyabonga from himself and the over powering darkness that is luring within him.

6|I N N ER D EMO N

Magic Book

"Happy Birthday Siyabonga!" Siyabonga's friends and family shouted as the young teen proceeded to blow out the candles on his cake.

"Hurry up Siyabonga and cut the cake, I am starving'." chirped Xolani Sibiya as his sister Ntombi elbowed him in the side.

"Xolani be nice!" Ntombi snapped at her older brother.

Laughter filled the room as Siyabonga looked around the room at his friends and family. His older brother Sphamandla sat at Siyabonga's side. Sphamandla and Siyabonga looked so much alike that sometimes people mistake the two brothers for twins even though Sphamandla was two years older and much taller than Siyabonga.

Sphamandla and Siyabonga had different fathers but the same mother. Sphamandla's father had passed away when he was five years old and Siyabonga's father left before Siyabonga was even born. Both of the teens mother had passed away rather suddenly as their mother's father, their grandfather took the teens in. Both of Sphamandla's and Siyabonga's classmates who also happened to be their closest friends were there too. Xolani and his sister Ntombi Sibiya, 7|I N N ER D EMO N

Neo Majola, and Nomathemba Mbatha celebrated the birthday with Siyabonga Mlangeni, Sphamandla Langa, and Mr. Mlangeni. Siyabonga's and Sphamandla's grandfather Mr. Mlangeni proceeded to cut the cake handing out a slice of cake to everybody.

"Siyabonga why don't you start opening up some of your presents." stated Mr. Mlangeni. Siyabonga proceeded to take a gift off of the chair that was right next to him taking off the card first before undoing the wrapping paper. He did this with every gift that he had gotten. Sphamandla had given Siyabonga a book that was written by Siyabonga's favorite author, Xolani had given Siyabonga a pack of playing cards from a game that they had heard about, Ntombi had given Siyabonga a gift card to a local store to get whatever he wanted, Nomathemba had given him a remote control race car, Neo had given Siyabonga several music cd's of several different popular groups, and Mr. Mlangeni had given Siyabonga a huge puzzle for him to solve. At the bottom of the pile was an odd looking package mailed to him. The package had no return address written on it. Siyabonga opened the package to find wrapped in brown paper an old looking leather bound book which looked much like a journal because there was no words found on the cover and/or on the spine of the book.

"This is certainly weird. Grandpa is this from you?"

Siyabonga asked out of curiosity as Mr. Mlangeni shook his head no. Sphamandla took the old book away from Siyabonga taking a closer look at it.

8|I N N ER D EMO N

"Who in the world would send you an old book like this?" asked Sphamandla before handing the book back to Siyabonga.

"I don't know the package had no address on it besides mine." replied Siyabonga as he placed the book down with the other gifts.

After the party was all over with and all of Siyabonga's and Sphamandla's friends went home, Siyabonga had brought all of his gifts up to his room. He became curious about the old leather bound book. After putting away everything, Siyabonga tossed the old book onto his bed. Siyabonga sat down onto his bed opening up the book. On the first page red a very graphic warning that at first glance Siyabonga thought that it was a joke.

'Whomever comes into possession of this book and proceeds to read from it out loud shall suffer a terrible curse. This curse will forever change this person as there is no way for the curse to be lifted. Be forewarned to read this book at your own discretion.' it read. Siyabonga proceeded to turn the page not realizing what he was getting himself into.

9|I N N ER D EMO N

Inevitable Curse

Siyabonga proceeded to read the first page after the warning as it seemed to be written in a bizarre and strange language.

But to Siyabonga the language appeared familiar as he read the words out loud in a strange tongue. Siyabonga could feel this strange power flowing into him that forced him to drop the book. Siyabonga hunched over in pain collapsing onto his floor onto his hands and knees. A dark power filled the room as the book's pages magically flipped open on their own. Siyabonga screamed in pain as the dark power poured into his body as he began to transform into something that was no human. Siyabonga screams became much louder as pain ripped throughout his body as he became long and slender like a cat. His back legs became bent as they transformed into large clawed feet as seen on gargoyle statues. Two short white spikes ripped out from his knees.

His arms became longer changing shape to be like a bat's wing leaving a couple of the fingers long and sharp as talons. Another pair of small white spikes had ripped out of Siyabonga's elbows. Two long dark brown horns had ripped out of Siyabonga's head as all of his teeth became sharp as a 10 | I N N E R D E M O N

pair of fangs lengthened from his mouth. Siyabonga's tongue became long and split like a snake's tongue. Siyabonga's Caucasian skin grew darker becoming tan and covered with a thin coat of fur as the fabric of his wings was the color that his skin used to be as from his wrist down to his fingers became light brown covered with fur. Dark brown spikes that almost looked like a dragon's scales had ripped out from Siyabonga's back starting at the base of his skull and ending at his waist. A long tail had also ripped out of Siyabonga's body stretching out the full length of his new body as a pair of white scythes pointing in opposite directions had ripped out near the tip of the tail. Siyabonga's once Amethyst eyes had become blood red as they glowed with power as they looked almost like a reptile's eyes. Two long red scars slashed their way over Siyabonga's eyes and on the shoulder blades as Siyabonga's ears stretched becoming longer and pointed like an elves ear. Siyabonga screamed and howled in pain as the transformation completed itself.

Sphamandla could feel the house shaking as he could hear Siyabonga screaming in pain. The screams sounded very unnatural for his little brother. Sphamandla took off going up the stairs two at a time busting into Siyabonga's room.

Dark energy shot out of the room sending Sphamandla flying backwards into the wall hard. Sphamandla scrambled back onto his feet entering the room once the energy had dissipated. Hunched over in the middle of the floor was Siyabonga as a stunned gasp emerged from out of Sphamandla when he saw that his little brother had become something not human. Siyabonga now looked like a demon.

The strange mysterious book that Siyabonga had received 11 | I N N E R D E M O N

laid arm length from Siyabonga opened up to the middle of the thick book.

"Siyabonga what happened to you?" Sphamandla asked in a shaky voice. A guttered snarl came out of Siyabonga's mouth as he left out through a nearby window sending glass flying everywhere. Sphamandla ran to the window to see Siyabonga flying off high in the sky.

"What in the world happened here? Sphamandla where is Siyabonga?" asked his grandfather when he was the chaotic mess of Siyabonga's room. Sphamandla walked back over to where the book laid picking it up. He felt a sharp zap of energy leap from the book when he picked it up. The book's pages magically flipped back to the first page as Sphamandla read the warning nearly dropping the book when he saw the warning. "Sphamandla what in the world is going on?" his grandfather asked again. Sphamandla turned to his grandfather shutting the book clutching the book tight in his hands.

"Grandpa it seems that Siyabonga has become cursed as he has been transformed into a demon. It seems that this book is the cause behind it." Sphamandla stated. He didn't know if his grandfather would believe him or not. Sphamandla had seen it with his own eyes. But he was determined to find a way to lift this curse from his little brother. He had made a promise to his mother that he would watch over, protect, and keep Siyabonga out of trouble but now it seemed that Siyabonga was in more trouble than Sphamandla even thought was even possible. ‘Don't worry Siyabonga, I will 12 | I N N E R D E M O N

find a way to save you even if it kills me’. Sphamandla thought to himself.

13 | I N N E R D E M O N

Exchange of Power

Siyabonga flew away from his house and family afraid of what he wanted to do to them. Power and darkness vibrated his very being that it took most of his willpower alone to leave the house. Siyabonga flew overhead heading towards the mountains where he could hopefully find some caves to rest in. Once overhead of the forest, Siyabonga lost control over himself as he spotted a young deer. Siyabonga swooped down quickly before the deer had a chance to escape. His clawed hands and feet digging into the deer sending blood spraying over Siyabonga's naked body. His scythed tail dug into the deer ripping it open as Siyabonga grabbed chunks of raw meat from out of the deer as he began to devour the deer. The smell of blood and fresh meat filled Siyabonga's senses as he picked the carcass clean leaving only the skin and bones behind. Siyabonga left back into the sky finding a cave in the mountain. Siyabonga landed on his hind legs walking into the cave where he proceeded to lay down with his tail and wings wrapped around his body. Slowly the demon fell asleep.

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Sphamandla picked up the mess in Siyabonga's room as he then sat on his little brother's bed. The strange book laid on a table as Sphamandla fully explained everything that he had witnessed to his grandfather showing him the warning page of the book. Sphamandla picked up a picture of him and Siyabonga from when they were still kids with their mother when she was alive. Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla looked exactly like their mother.

"I am sorry mom, I failed you. Now I have no clue to where Siyabonga is and how I can even save him. According to this book there is no way to lift this curse from Siyabonga. But this doesn't mean that I will give up, I will find a way to save him. Please watch after Siyabonga and keep him safe until I find a way to save him from this curse that has transformed him into a demon." Sphamandla cried out loud as he placed down the picture and picked up an old ratty looking teddy bear that Sphamandla had given Siyabonga when he was very little. Sphamandla laid down curling up on Siyabonga's bed holding the bear close to his chest as he cried himself to sleep.

In Sphamandla's dreams he could see his demonic looking little brother attacking his friends and family while being commanded by a man that was cloaked in the shadows.

When Siyabonga left at Sphamandla to attack his brother, Sphamandla woke up bolting upright screaming. His body was drenched in sweat. The dream felt way too real to be a dream. Sphamandla panted as he sat up right in the bed. The book still laid by the bedside table as Sphamandla proceeded to get out of Siyabonga’s bed going to the bathroom to wash his face. Sphamandla had made up his mind that he would go 15 | I N N E R D E M O N

around town looking for anyone and/or anybody who knew about this cursed book. Sphamandla walked to his room taking his old clothes out and getting dressed into a new pair. He then went back to Siyabonga's room taking the mysterious book with him downstairs. As Sphamandla went into the kitchen, he found a note tapped on the refrigerator door written in his grandfather's handwriting.

'Sphamandla I went out to track down anything I can find out about that book. Hopefully may also find a way to track down Siyabonga. Please see what you can find out on your end. Grandpa.' Sphamandla made something quick to eat as he then proceeded to leave the house heading towards town.

The sounds of birds chirping and the warmth of the sun awoke Siyabonga from his sleep. He stretched out his body like a cat letting out a long yawn. Siyabonga's stomach rumbled loudly as he realized that he was hungry. Siyabonga walked towards the cave's entrance as his ears twitched picking up various different sounds. He could hear the buzzing of a walkie-talkie coming from the area that he had killed the deer. Need and instinct kicked in as Siyabonga took to the sky spreading open his winged arms flying towards the sound. His enhanced sight allowed him to see a park ranger examining the deer carcass. Siyabonga swooped down rather suddenly zipping past his prey making sure the man was alone. It didn't seem to matter to Siyabonga when he saw the man was armed with a hunting-riffle. Siyabonga zipped back around catching the man off guard slashing at the man as he landed close by. The park ranger scrambled back to his feet bleeding from the scratches that Siyabonga had slashed across his chest. The ranger shot Siyabonga 16 | I N N E R D E M O N

dead center with three bullets as the demon remained unmoved. Dark energy poured over the wounds driving the bullets out from his body as the wounds magically healed.

Siyabonga let out a low guttered snarl as he looked at the man when he turned to run away when he saw Siyabonga.

Siyabonga landed on top of the man as his scythed tail slit the man's throat killing him instantly. The smell of fresh kill proved too great for Siyabonga to ignore as he proceeded to rip into the man using his claws, teeth, and tail. Part of Siyabonga's consciousness had emerged back through when he realized what he had done. Siyabonga let out a long loud guttered howl as tears of blood streaked down his face. ‘No I actually killed someone. What in the world is happening to me?’ Siyabonga snarled in his mind before he went away taking back to the sky heading back to the cave that had now become his home.

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Maduna’s Encounter

Sphamandla went to every bookstore that he could find asking every owner if they knew anything about a cursed book. So far Sphamandla had found nothing. Finally reaching at the end of his rope Sphamandla went into mystic shop. Standing behind the counter stood a man who appeared to be from India. His head was wrapped up in a turban as in the middle of his forehead was a red dot.

"You look troubled my young friend. So what brings you into Maduna's shop?" the man asked. Sphamandla walked up to the counter placing the book down.

"This book was sent to my little brother on his birthday.

When Siyabonga read from the book he became cursed transforming into a demon." Sphamandla stated. The man looked at him as he took the book from Sphamandla opening it in order to get a better perspective.

"Your story does sound almost incredible and impossible to believe but this book was definitely not made by human hands. I had once heard of a book that could curse ordinary 18 | I N N E R D E M O N

humans into demons. It seems that your little brother is a victim of its dark magic." stated Maduna as he closed the book shut looking at Sphamandla through his blue eyes.

"Normal human beings are very easily susceptible to this book if they contain a power that is unknown to them. I can sense and see this power within you as it appears to be very strong. But this still raises the question of who would allow this book to fall into human hands?" Maduna stated as with a simple wave of his hands as a binding chain magically appeared around the book. Sphamandla's eyes widened as he saw Maduna use magic.

"Do you know of a way to lift the curse?" Sphamandla asked as Maduna shook his head no.

"However I do know of a way that you can help your brother but granted the journey will be a long and hard one.

Through this journey you will discover things about yourself that you didn't know. Only through this journey will you be able to break through the darkness and reach your little brother. The question remains will you take this journey Sphamandla Langa to save your kid brother?"

Sphamandla nodded his head without hesitation as Maduna smiled. It seemed by some unforeseen force that Maduna knew things about Sphamandla without him saying a single word to Maduna. Maduna escorted Sphamandla to the store as he carried the curse book in the hand.

"Maduna you told me that you can sense and see that power I have. How is it possible that I have this power?"

Sphamandla asked.

19 | I N N E R D E M O N

"That I cannot tell you Sphamandla. You must discover the answer for yourself. Only a select few in this world possess magic. Through this journey will you learn to harness and control the power within you. However you shall not make this journey alone, which means we have a hard task of locating Siyabonga Mlangeni." stated Maduna as they went through a door ending up in a place that looked like a magician's layer as it contained various items, potions, books, scrolls, and mystic items. Maduna placed the bound book on a pedal stool and with a simple wave of his hand the chain had disappeared from the book. The book flew open as the pages flipped on their own. Dark energy and power began to fill the room as Maduna used his power to control it. "It seems that the demon lord Lebanon won't rest until he has completed what he had begun. Which means that the curse hasn't fully taken over Siyabonga yet. I am a little bit surprised that you were able to withstand the temptation of the dark power contained within this book." Maduna stated as he waved his hand rebinding the book. The dark energy and power flowed into Maduna's crystal ball as it began to glow. Maduna walked over to the crystal ball as images began to appear within the ball. Sphamandla joined him as he could see a forest near the mountains. The images moved up to the mountains to a cave where they could see a slumbering demon. "Ah so that's where he is. I shall use my powers to teleport you there but be careful Sphamandla, we have no clue if your little brother is in control over himself or not. Use these to bind your brother once shacked, I will use my powers to bring your brother back here." stated Maduna as he gave Sphamandla shackles to place around Siyabonga's hands, feet, and neck. The shackles felt 20 | I N N E R D E M O N

incredibly light as Sphamandla could feel a strong magical power flowing into them. "Are you ready?" Maduna asked as Sphamandla simply nodded his head. With a wave of Maduna's hands Sphamandla had disappeared in a bright blinding flash of light

21 | I N N E R D E M O N

The Partial Truth

Within minutes Sphamandla appeared at the base of the mountain that he saw in Maduna's crystal ball. Sphamandla could see a path leading up as he could remember that Siyabonga laid with a cave close by. Sphamandla slowly walked up the path hoping to catch Siyabonga off guard.

Siyabonga awoke when he could feel this strange power vibrating in the air. Siyabonga crept out of his cave to see a teenager climbing up the path. In the back of Siyabonga's mind, he recognized the person but to the demon he saw food. Siyabonga lept out of the cave heading straight for him as Siyabonga's clawed feet dug into Sphamandla's shoulders Sphamandla screamed in pain as he took a pair of shackles clamping them around Siyabonga's clawed feet. The demon howled in pain as the down from the sky. Sphamandla wiggled out of Siyabonga's grasp quickly getting away from his brother. Siyabonga stared at Sphamandla through his glowing red eyes which seemed darker and more dangerous than usual as a guttered snarl left out of Siyabonga's lips.

Sphamandla stared back at Siyabonga holding tightly in his 22 | I N N E R D E M O N

hands three more shackles. Sphamandla's shoulders were bleeding from the wounds that Siyabonga had inflicted on him.

"Siyabonga it's me, it's Sphamandla." Sphamandla stated as Siyabonga look at him and his claws extended out.

Sphamandla quickly dodged out of the way nearly avoiding Siyabonga's scythed tail. Sphamandla noticed that his reflexes was much quicker than normal but Siyabonga proved to be much more agile than Sphamandla as he somersaulted onto Sphamandla. Sphamandla quickly shacked Siyabonga's hands as he then kicked his brother off of him. ‘Clearly it seems that the demon has control over him.’ Sphamandla thought to himself as he scrambled back up to his feet holding the last shackle in hand. The shackles that Sphamandla had managed to get onto Siyabonga chained his hands and feet together as he couldn't move. The demon snarled aggressively at Sphamandla as the smell of blood clung to the air. "I am sorry to do this to you Siyabonga but you leave me no choice. I made a promise and I plan to keep it." Sphamandla replied with tears in his eyes as he walked up to the demon slowly. Part of Siyabonga's consciousness finally suppressed the demon when he realized that he had attacked and hurt his own brother. Small whimpers came out of Siyabonga when Sphamandla came up close to snap the last shackle in place. Siyabonga didn't move as he allowed his brother to chain him up. Siyabonga glanced at the wounds on Sphamandla's shoulders as he moved his chained clawed wing hands pulling at Sphamandla's shirt.

Sphamandla had noticed that Siyabonga's eyes had changed as his mannerisms was more gentle and loving. Siyabonga's 23 | I N N E R D E M O N

snake-like tongue licked at the wounds cleaning off the blood as his saliva acted like a healing agent. The wounds began to heal instantly leaving no trace of a scar. "I knew that you were in there Siyabonga. It's alright now, I am going to help you. We will find some way to lift part of this curse from you." Sphamandla stated as Siyabonga tended to his wounds. Suddenly both of them were surrounded by a bright light as they disappeared from the forest heading back at Maduna's shop.

"You have really done well at your first task Sphamandla.

Now I must have time to prepare you for your next journey.

I will keep Siyabonga here where he will not cause any trouble. Go home and I will call you when I have everything ready. When you come back bring with you an item that you and Siyabonga can relate to something that has an important meaning to the two of you." Maduna stated as with a simple wave of his hands Siyabonga was partly clothed as he wore a pair of blue jean shorts that ended at above his knees. A huge hole was missing out of the back where his tail emerged through it. Siyabonga carefully sniffed at Maduna unsure of what to make of the mage.

"Alright Maduna. Siyabonga listen to me carefully, Maduna is going to look after you for a while but I will be back." stated Sphamandla as Siyabonga whimpered for him not to go. Maduna gently patted Siyabonga on the shoulder as Sphamandla got up to leave. Siyabonga watched with sad eyes as his brother left the store heading back home without Siyabonga.

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After Sphamandla had left Siyabonga walked over to a spot in Maduna's shop curling up. Maduna snapped his fingers as the blanket magically appeared laying over Siyabonga's partial nude body.

"I have done as you asked. Are you certain that you want these two boys to go through with this trial?" Maduna asked in a hushed voice. A young woman stepped out of the shadows as she looked almost like an Egyptian goddess.

"I am certain Maduna. Magic is starting to awaken in the world once again. It is no coincidence that Lebanon's book landed in their hands. I will not allow Lebanon to take them." the woman stated.

"I shall continue to assist them as much as possible Monica."

Maduna stated bending at the waist as the woman simply disappeared.

25 | I N N E R D E M O N

Ten Thousand Pieces

Sphamandla made it home to find his grandfather had arrived home before him as he was talking to his friends.

Concern were on the friends faces when came walking up still wearing the bloody shirt.

"Sphamandla what happened? Did you find Siyabonga?" Mr. Mlangeni asked.

"Yeah I found him, the blood was from wounds that he inflicted on me. Right now Siyabonga is with a friend I trust who told me what was going on." Sphamandla replied.

"Then it is true what Mr. Mlangeni had told us Sphamandla.

Siyabonga has become a demon and that strange book that he had gotten yesterday cursed him." stated Neo as Sphamandla weakly nodded his head yes.

"Sphamandla why don't you come inside and we will take a look at your wounds." stated Mr. Mlangeni.

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"You don't need to Grandpa. Siyabonga has already healed them." Sphamandla stated as everyone looked at Sphamandla in confusion. "I will explain everything inside."

Sphamandla stated as they all went into the house.

Sphamandla told them everything that Maduna had told him. "Now I have to go on a journey with Siyabonga in order to discover the truth about myself and Siyabonga, develop these powers that I have, and attempt to keep Siyabonga away from Lebanon." Sphamandla told them.

"You must be nuts Sphamandla. Siyabonga attacks you, then heals you. How do you know that he won't kill you when you are alone?" asked Xolani.

"I don't Xolani. But I trust my little brother. I know that he would never intentionally hurt me whether or not a demon has taken control over him. I made a promise to my mother before she died that I would watch after and protect Siyabonga. Even though Siyabonga may have transformed into a demon, he is still my little brother." replied Sphamandla.

"Xolani put yourself in Sphamandla's shoes. Wouldn't you do the same thing if it happened to Ntombi?" asked Nomathemba as Xolani couldn't answer knowing that Nomathemba spoke the truth.

"So when do you leave Sphamandla?" asked Mr. Mlangeni as Sphamandla shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know grandpa." he replied.

27 | I N N E R D E M O N

Siyabonga awoke to the sounds of his stomach grumbling loudly. He was alone in Maduna's shop chained up to the wall to keep from attacking Maduna and/or fleeing. The magical shackles kept Siyabonga in check as every now and then he could feel the demon's influence take over.

‘Give it up human, you belong to me. This curse will never be lifted. You are forever trapped like this.’ snarled the beast in the back of his mind.

No, I won't allow you to control me. I have already killed a human being because of you and nearly hurt my older brother. Siyabonga replied. Evil laughter echoed in the back of Siyabonga's mind that is sent chills down his spine.

‘You will be mine, it is just a matter of time.’ the voice stated. Siyabonga curled up like a cat looking at his bat winged hands and scythed tail. Blood tears began to swell in Siyabonga's eyes feeling stupid that he didn't pay attention to that warning in the book that he had gotten. Suddenly his ears twitched at the sound of Maduna entering the room. In his hands he held a plate filled with several pieces of raw meat. Siyabonga's mouth began to water instantly.

"Oh I am glad to see that you are up Siyabonga. I thought that you might be hungry so I brought you something to eat." Maduna stated placing the plate down by Siyabonga.

Siyabonga eagerly picked up a piece of meat digging into it with his sharp teeth having the piece of raw meat and blood fill his senses. "Just keep holding onto your humanity Siyabonga. I know that your brother Sphamandla will find a way to defeat the darkness." stated Maduna as he walked around gathering up various items together putting them all 28 | I N N E R D E M O N

into a large book bag. Everything was ready for Sphamandla's and Siyabonga's journey.

Sphamandla went up to the attic going through things to find something that he and Siyabonga could relate to. In a chest that held items that had once belonged to his mother, he found a pair of gold diamond shaped pierced earrings which had an Amethyst birthstone in the middle of the diamond. Sphamandla could remember what he and Siyabonga had to do to buy these earrings all on their own with their own money. When they gave it to their mother, she proceeded to always wear them never taking them off.

Granted neither Sphamandla nor Siyabonga had pierced ears, it was the only item that he could find that had any sort of meaning to him and Siyabonga. Sphamandla quickly put everything back away, put the earrings into his pocket, and ran down the stairs.

"Grandpa I am leaving. I can't guarantee when I will be back." Sphamandla shouted out.

"Hey Sphamandla." Sphamandla stopped in his tracks as he turned towards his grandfather. Mr. Mlangeni walked up to Sphamandla giving him a great big hug. "You be careful out there and give Siyabonga my love. I hope that you both will make it back home to us. Remember we will all be praying for you." Mr. Mlangeni stated with tears in his eyes as Sphamandla returned the hug back.

"I will grandpa." Sphamandla replied as he took off out the door heading towards Maduna's shop.

29 | I N N E R D E M O N

Sphamandla arrived several minutes later at Maduna's shop to find him not up in the front of the store.

"Maduna are you here?" Sphamandla called out into the shop.

"In the back Sphamandla. You have perfect timing, I was just about to summon you." replied Maduna. Sphamandla went to the back of the store to find Siyabonga munching on a piece of raw meat as Maduna had just finally finished packing up the backpack. "Did you find it?" Maduna asked as Sphamandla reached into his pocket taking out the earrings.

"Both Siyabonga and I gave these to our mother as a birthday present. We both went through a lot to earn the money all on our own in order to get them. Our mother wore them all the time after she got them." replied Sphamandla as he handed the earrings to Maduna.

"Yes this will work perfectly. Now I am going to need a drop of blood from you and Siyabonga. Make sure that it lands on the stone." Maduna stated as he handed Sphamandla a needle. Sphamandla pricked his finger making sure that a drop of blood landed on the Amethyst stones as Maduna held the earrings. Once done they walked over to Siyabonga to do the same thing. Once that was done, Maduna recited a couple of words in a foreign tongue as the earrings began to glow with magic. Maduna then walked over to Siyabonga putting an earring on his right ear. Then he did the same thing to Sphamandla. Sphamandla hardly 30 | I N N E R D E M O N

felt the sharp pinch of the earring going into his ear. "This will help to keep your demon brother under control until you learn about your powers." stated Maduna before he handed Sphamandla the book bag. "Everything that you will hopefully need will be inside of this book bag. I will teleport you both to the magic world where your journey will actually begin." Maduna added as with a wave of his hands the chains on Siyabonga's shackles broke as the shackles still remained on Siyabonga. Sphamandla grabbed the loose chain hanging from Siyabonga's neck as Maduna used his magic to teleport the two teens to their destination sight.

31 | I N N E R D E M O N

Magical World

Within minutes both Siyabonga and Sphamandla had arrived within the magical world. Sphamandla took in the sights allowing Siyabonga to romp around in the field that they were in. The world appeared far different from the one that they came from. The sky was a light violet blue with three bright white suns in the sky. The nearby mountains were jade green as the grass was a carpet of golden green, the water was a crystal blue-green colour as the trees had a black bark with the leaved glowing in a florescent pastel colours. Strange animals that Sphamandla had seen only in various picture books of different fairy tales roamed not afraid of the two teens. Even though this was the first time that Sphamandla has been to this world, he felt like he had been there before. Sphamandla reached into the backpack that Maduna had given to him pulling out a map. Something in his gut told him to go to the mountains. In order to get to the mountains, they had to travel through the forest.

Sphamandla put back the map into the bag whistling for Siyabonga. His demonic brother answered the call walking around on his hands and feet much like an animal.

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"Come on Siyabonga, we have a long journey ahead of us."

Sphamandla stated as his brother just tilted his head studying Sphamandla who tried to avoid crying and looking at the horrible shape that his brother was in. Siyabonga reached out his claw-like winged hand touching Sphamandla's hand.

"Sphamandla?" Siyabonga asked in a strange guttered voice.

Sphamandla turned towards Siyabonga shocked. It was the first words that he had heard the demon speak since his transformation. Tears streaked down Sphamandla's face. His little brother was still in there regardless of what he may look like. This made Sphamandla's resolve only stronger. He may not be able to return his brother back to a human form but he would find a way to free Siyabonga of the demonic influences that was plaguing him. Siyabonga cozied up close to his older brother standing upright on his back hind legs.

He was still a little bit shorter than Sphamandla as Siyabonga could sense Sphamandla's feelings. Siyabonga wrapped his winged arms around Sphamandla's body crying tears of blood. "Not your fault. All mine. Stupid." he stated having a hard time speaking. His speech was broken and his voice guttered that he didn't sound the same. Sphamandla seemed to understand what Siyabonga was trying to say.

Sphamandla wiped away his tears when Siyabonga stepped back.

"Thanks for your vote of confidence Siyabonga but I made a promise to mom that I would always protect you and keep you out of trouble. I guess that I am not much of an older brother." Sphamandla stated as Siyabonga shook his head no.

33 | I N N E R D E M O N

"Couldn't know this." Siyabonga stated before he spat out a few curses in his demonic tongue. Siyabonga took a few steps away from Sphamandla when he became frustrated when he couldn't talk to Sphamandla. Guttered snarls and curses escaped from Siyabonga's mouth in frustration that part of his demonic nature broke through.

"Siyabonga stop, it is alright. We aren't going to get much done if we continue to feel sorry for each other." Sphamandla shouted out as the earrings that they wore glowed even more as Siyabonga yelped in pain when the earring sent a sharp bolt of power through his body. The demon wheezed calming down. ‘Damn it, that hurt!’ snapped a voice mentally. Sphamandla looked Siyabonga shocked as he was hearing Siyabonga's thoughts loud and clear in his mind. Could this be a power that Sphamandla possessed?

"Come on Siyabonga we should get going." Sphamandla stated as Siyabonga hunched back over following behind Sphamandla.

Several hours later, Siyabonga and Sphamandla had reached the forest. The forest was thick and dark as no light broke through the black woods. Sphamandla paused for a minute looking for a light and something to cut the branches in order to make a path. Suddenly Sphamandla could hear a swift crack. When Sphamandla looked up Siyabonga was standing up on his hind legs. His tail swung chopping the branches. In his winged hand he held a fireball. It was hard for Siyabonga to keep his balance while on his hind legs 34 | I N N E R D E M O N

because of the way that his knees were bent allowing Siyabonga to only walk on all fours for long periods of time.

Sphamandla went up to the demon offering his shoulder for support.

"Just watch the claws little brother." Sphamandla stated as the demon nodded his head. As they walked, Siyabonga was careful where he swung his tail so not to hit Sphamandla. He was grateful to Maduna's magic that kept some of his more beast-like urges and tendencies under control. Siyabonga's shackles were the only thing making any noise as they moved through the forest. It was slow going through the forest because of Siyabonga was lighting the way and that he had a hard time walking upright on his hind legs. But thankfully Sphamandla walked slowly enough for Siyabonga.

Sphamandla decided to take a break after walking for what seemed like three hours.

Sphamandla sat down onto a fallen tree log as Siyabonga's tail brushed together a few branches in order to keep the fireball for light. Sphamandla took off the backpack digging into it to find a bottle of water and dry rations. He gave Siyabonga that bottle of water first uncapping it for him.

"Go ahead and drink up Siyabonga. We will get going again in a minute." Sphamandla wheezed. ‘Thank you Sphamandla but you need it more than me. You are completely dehydrated because of me.’ a voice stated mentally within Sphamandla's mind as Siyabonga pushed back the water bottle towards Sphamandla.

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"Siyabonga did you hear that just now?" Sphamandla asked.

Siyabonga's ears twitched as he attempted to hear whatever Sphamandla was hearing. Slowly the demon shook his head no. "Then I was right about what I was hearing. Siyabonga it seems that I am hearing your thoughts since because you can't speak normally, you must be able to speak telepathically and somehow I am hearing this speech in my mind." stated Sphamandla. Siyabonga looked at his brother wide eyed surprised. He didn't realize that he was even doing what he was doing.

After resting for a couple of minutes both Siyabonga and Sphamandla continued on their way as it took them another three hours to finally exit the forest. They could see overhead that the suns were starting to set at they had to find someplace to camp for the night.

36 | I N N E R D E M O N

Battle Against Demons

As Siyabonga and Sphamandla finally left the forest, Siyabonga hunched back over walking on all fours.

Siyabonga felt sore and tired from walking up right. ‘I hope we don't have any more areas like that. Walking around upright takes more out of me than I am used too.’ Siyabonga stated mentally. Sphamandla was wheezing heavily as he took out the map from his bag to check it. He wondered if there were any cabins where they could hold up for the night.

"Don't worry it doesn't seem to be any more places like that.

We have to keep heading towards the mountains. I have a feeling that the answers are there. From the map I can tell that there is a hut nearby where we can camp for the night."

Sphamandla replied rolling back up the map and placing it into the bag. The two continued on their way as Siyabonga could feel that something was wrong. He could feel something sinister was heading in their direction. Suddenly without warning Siyabonga could hear this bird-like screech 37 | I N N E R D E M O N

as something swooped down from the sky grabbing Sphamandla's shoulders and hosting him back into the sky.

Sphamandla screamed in pain as he looked up to see a blond female harpy (a half human/half bird) with Amethyst eyes had him in her talons.

"Can't allow you any further. Lebanon will have what belongs to him." she stated in the same guttered voice that he had heard Siyabonga speak in. Sphamandla looked at the ground to see a male tanar'ri (a half human/ half snake with six arms as featured in dungeons & dragons roll playing game) had Siyabonga in his coils. The human half of the serpent looked familiar to him. ‘It can't be, but that's Kobedi Sekoati. He had suddenly disappeared years ago. How did this happen? Did Lebanon's book do this to them too?’ Sphamandla asked as he took a better look at the harpy. Sphamandla did not seem to recognize the blonde woman but he had felt like he should.

Below Siyabonga struggled against the tanar'ri as he had heard Sphamandla refer to the serpent by name. Kobedi Sekoati was an upper class man like Sphamandla as the two were close friends until he disappeared suddenly. Siyabonga could remember him very vaguely.

"Give up and give in you belong to Lebanon. It is only a matter of time before we destroy your brother. The prophecy will not be allowed to happen." hissed Kobedi. ‘Listen to them human. Your brother will not make it through this trip. Give into Lebanon and you may walk 38 | I N N E R D E M O N

away with your life intact.’ hissed the demon in Siyabonga's mind.

‘NO. I will not allow you to hurt my brother. Lebanon will not have me while I still have breath in me!’ Siyabonga roared as he dug his claws into the serpent.

"No it's impossible, the human has over ridden the demon and is using the demons powers if they were his own. Mai kill the human now!" Kobedi yelled up towards the harpy as he coiled his body tighter around Siyabonga.

Power swelled deep inside of Sphamandla.

"Why can't you just leave us alone?" Sphamandla yelled at the harpy. In his anger Sphamandla released the magic blasting the harpy causing her to drop him. Siyabonga watched in horror as the harpy swooped down as one of her bird-like taloned feet dug through Sphamandla's body. Rage and anger ripped through Siyabonga causing his full demonic powers to emerge. Siyabonga blasted Kobedi off of him as he took up into the sky flying at full speed towards the harpy. Siyabonga sent another energy blast at the harpy forcing her to release her hostage. Sphamandla's body began to fall as Siyabonga swooped down catching his brother's limp body. Siyabonga brought Sphamandla's body down to the ground laying Sphamandla down before he moved attacking the two demons. First on his hit list was the harpy that hurt his brother. Siyabonga took up back into the sky as his clawed feet dug into the harpy's breast. Siyabonga's clawed winged hands dug into the harpy's wings and he drove her down to the ground hard. Siyabonga's scythed tail 39 | I N N E R D E M O N

ripped into the harpy sending blood and guts flying everywhere as he killed her instantly with no remorse.

Siyabonga then turned his attention to the tanar'ri as he begun to slither away disappearing back into the darkness.

"Lebanon will not be pleased when he learns about this.

Don't think that you haven't seen the last of us Siyabonga Mlangeni." hissed Kobedi.

Siyabonga hobbled over to where his brother's body laid as he let out a long and loud guttered howl. Blood tears streamed down the demons face. Suddenly he heard something heading in his direction. Siyabonga paid attention letting out a guttered snarl as a human approached.

Siyabonga didn't recognize the human and he was unsure if this human meant to hurt him or his brother.

"I wouldn't snarl at me Siyabonga-boy not unless you don't want me to save your brother's life." the man stated.

Siyabonga snarled at the man who had long straight white hair which fell to his shoulder's in length as it covered part of his Caucasian face as he stared at Siyabonga through his blue eye which was the only one that Siyabonga could see.

Siyabonga didn't back off even when the stranger refereed to him by name. "No wonder why Maduna said you might be a little aggressive to those you don't know. I guess that you aren't leaving me with much of a choice." he stated as with a wave of his hand a magical bubble formed around Siyabonga moving him away from Sphamandla's body. Siyabonga snapped and struggled trying to claw his way out of the bubble as the stranger walked over towards Sphamandla's body. Sphamandla had a number of claw marks the worse 40 | I N N E R D E M O N

were on his shoulders as well as a huge hole in his stomach.

His body was still warm as all ready some of Sphamandla's wounds were healing. "Sorry but this is going to hurt you a lot Langa-boy." the stranger stated as his hands began to glow with magical energy. He laid his hands on Sphamandla's body having the teen jerk to life screaming in intense pain as his wounds were all magically healed.

Siyabonga stopped struggling as he watched Sphamandla's wounds heal while his body was being tossed around like a rag doll. Finally all of Sphamandla's wounds were completely healed as he began to breathe regularly. "Well it seems that you have finally calmed down Siyabonga-boy." the stranger stated as he waved his hand undoing the bubble that Siyabonga was trapped in. Siyabonga walked over to where his brother laid relieved to see that he was alive. He then looked at the stranger who picked up Sphamandla into his arms.

"Who are you?" he asked in a guttered voice as a smile stretched across the stranger’s face.

"You can say that I am a friend. It is not safe to stay out here after dark especially since you have demons hunting you and your brother." the stranger stated as he began to walk off.

Siyabonga followed behind not sure whom this human was or why he was helping him and Sphamandla.

41 | I N N E R D E M O N

Training with Mxolisi

After walking a couple of minutes they had arrived at a small hut just as the last rays of sunlight vanished. The stranger lit a couple of torches with a wave of his hand which gave off a strange and rather potent smell. Siyabonga winched at the smell as clearly his demonic half didn't like the smell.

"Sorry about this Siyabonga-boy but this is the only way we can keep the demons from coming around." the stranger stated as he opened the door to the hut. "Come on in and I will close all of the windows to keep that smell out for you." he stated. Siyabonga did as he said as he ventured inside of the house. The inside of the hut looked five times bigger than the outside. The stranger brought Sphamandla over to a couch laying the teen down before he set off closing all of the windows and the door. He then returned with two blankets laying one on the floor and the other on Sphamandla. With the wave of his hand the fire place lit up with a warm roaring fire place. Siyabonga has seen Maduna use the same kind of magic. The man had mentioned Maduna's name earlier.

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‘Could it be possible that this man possesses the same power as Maduna and that is how he knows Maduna?’ Siyabonga asked himself mentally.

"To answer your question Siyabonga-boy, yes. Maduna was actually my teacher. He told me that you boys would be traveling through here. But I don't know how those demons learned that you were here. Are you hungry Siyabongaboy?" the man replied as Siyabonga slowly nodded his head yes. The man walked into the kitchen grabbing a few things together before he re-entered bringing a plate of raw ribs over to Siyabonga as well as a bowl of water. Hunger kicked in as Siyabonga dug into the pieces of meat.

‘You still didn't tell me who you are.’ Siyabonga stated mentally. He was a little bit surprised that someone other than Sphamandla could hear him mentally. Did everyone who had magic within them have this power to hear people's thoughts?

"My name is Mxolisi. You two should be safe here until morning. Langa-boy should come around in the morning.

You should get some rest while you can." replied Mxolisi.

Siyabonga nodded his head as he finished off the plate of ribs and drinking all of the water. He then let out a long yawn before he walked over to the blanket curling up close to the fireplace falling asleep.

Mxolisi left the room entering another room which revealed itself with a wave of his hand. The crystal orb which sat on a stool was glowing Mxolisi walked over to the orb placing one hand on it.

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"They are here Maduna." he stated as a man's face appeared in the orb.

"That is good news to hear Mxolisi but, why do I get the feeling that something is troubling you?" asked Maduna.

"Demons that have been transformed by Lebanon had attacked them already. Siyabonga-boy managed to kill one in a fit of rage because he thought that it had killed Langaboy." replied Mxolisi.

"Are they alright?" asked Maduna.

"Langa-boy was seriously injured but his powers managed to keep him alive until I arrived. It seemed that his own magic incorporated mine into his." replied Mxolisi. The look of shock stretched across Maduna's face. "Wouldn't it be easier if Ashanti trained them?" Mxolisi asked.

"It would be but you know that Ashanti won't do it until they learn the truth about their legacy for themselves.

Unfortunately my magic has been fading over the centuries that is why I sent them to you even though they don't know that I did." replied Maduna.

"Alright I will try my best." replied Mxolisi as the orb dimmed out.

It was early the next morning when Sphamandla regained consciousness, he felt around for the hole that was supposed to be in his stomach to find that it wasn't there. Sphamandla opened his eyes to find himself in a house.

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‘How is it I am alive? Siyabonga couldn't have healed me and brought me here. So somebody else must have helped us.’ Sphamandla thought to himself as he moved getting up off of the couch that he was laying on. Siyabonga laid sleeping next to a fire as Sphamandla could smell something cooking.

His stomach grumbled lightly because he hasn't had anything to eat since beginning this journey. Sphamandla slowly walked towards the kitchen finding a man standing by the stove cooking pancakes.

"Have a seat Langa-boy these will be ready in five more minutes." he stated. Sphamandla looked at him shocked that this person seemed to know his name. Sphamandla sat down at the table studying the man as he move about.

"Were you the one who healed me and brought me and Siyabonga here?" Sphamandla asked.

"Yes, I did. Maduna told me that you two would be coming.

He also told me that I should teach you how to use some of your magic. It was your magic that kept you alive and started healing some of your wounds. Oh I should introduce myself my name is Mxolisi." Mxolisi stated as he walked over to the table placing down two plates filled with pancakes.

"I hope that Siyabonga wasn't too much trouble for you. I even have a hard time controlling him." stated Sphamandla as he dug into the plate of pancakes.

"Nothing that I can't handle Langa-boy. After breakfast, we will start training." replied Mxolisi.

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After they had breakfast, both Sphamandla and Mxolisi travelled to the huge spacious back yard. They left Siyabonga sleeping since he was so warn out because of everything that had happened to him.

"Right now Langa-boy you are only managing to use your powers through your emotions. We have to focus on you willing the magic forth. Over time it will be just a simple wave of your hand without thinking to get the magic to do what you want." stated Mxolisi. Sphamandla watched as Mxolisi used his powers to form a ball of magic in the palm of his hands. After witnessing and hearing how to control the magic, Sphamandla gave it a try. It took him several tries to get it right. Once Sphamandla got the hang of it Mxolisi had him try to hold it for lengths of time and increase or decrease its size. Sphamandla proved to be a quick study as it seemed to feel natural to use magic.

"Mxolisi I have a question, should it feel this natural to use magic even though I have never used magic or even knew that I had these powers until recently?" Sphamandla asked.

"For someone like you because you were raised as a normal human being I would say yes but because of your lineage I would say no." replied Mxolisi. Sphamandla looked at him in confusion when he mentioned his lineage. Sphamandla could remember the demons that attacked him saying something about a prophecy.

"Mxolisi what do you know about my lineage and some kind of prophecy?" Sphamandla asked him seriously.

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"Well I can't give you the full details about those things Langa-boy. The lineage has something to do with your family and the prophecy has to deal with what is happening to you and Siyabonga-boy. That is all that I am allowed to tell you." replied Mxolisi. At least now Sphamandla knew a little about what was going on.

47 | I N N E R D E M O N

Destiny

After several worth hours of training it seemed that Sphamandla had gotten better at controlling and using magic that it seemed almost second nature to him. Even Mxolisi seemed surprised at how natural magic was to Sphamandla even though this was the first time that the teen had ever willingly used magic.

"Well I have taught you all that I can actually teach you Langa-boy, the rest is up to you and Siyabonga-boy to discover on your own. Keep heading towards the mountains.

There is a wise elderly mage named Ashanti. He can teach you things that I cannot. The journey up the mountains will not be an easy one as you and Siyabonga-boy will have to rely on each other. I am not certain how much longer your brother can keep his demonic influences under control. The demon within him is growing stronger and the demons that Lebanon have transformed will keep coming after you both to prevent the prophecy from coming true. Seek out a demon named Sabelo, he can tell you more about the prophecy. He 48 | I N N E R D E M O N

is one of the few demons that Lebanon doesn't control."

Mxolisi stated as the two went back into Mxolisi's house.

Siyabonga was awaking up as he stretched out his body letting out a long yawn.

"Langa-boy let me give you a change of clothes since the ones that you are wearing are completely ruined." replied Mxolisi as he went up the stairs. Siyabonga trotted over to his brother tugging at his hand.

‘Sphamandla what's going on? You feel different. A part of me is actually afraid.’ Siyabonga stated mentally.

Sphamandla turned to his brother a little bit surprised by what he had said.

"Mxolisi was teaching me how to use some of my powers, this way I have a better understanding of what I am capable of." replied Sphamandla.

‘So that explains what I am sensing. So what do we do know?’ Siyabonga asked.

"According to Mxolisi we should continue heading towards the mountains. There we will find a demon named Sabelo who could tell us about the prophecy and an elder mage named Ashanti who can teach us more about our powers." replied Sphamandla just as Mxolisi had come back with a change of clothes for Sphamandla.

"Hopefully some of these will fit. Sorry Siyabonga-boy but because of the shape and form of your body, none of the 49 | I N N E R D E M O N

items that I have will work for you." stated Mxolisi.

Sphamandla went through the clothes finding a white tshirt, a pair of blue jeans, and a black leather jacket.

Sphamandla then went into a separate room to change coming back after a couple of minutes changed as he held his original clothes in his arms which Mxolisi took from him.

"I shall take care of these for you Langa-boy. Good luck you two and I hope that you find what you two are looking for." stated Mxolisi.

"Thanks for everything Mxolisi. Come on Siyabonga let's get going." Sphamandla stated as he and Siyabonga left Mxolisi's place.

"They are gone now Miss Monica. Was it a wise move for me not to tell them about their lineage or about the prophecy?" Mxolisi asked as a woman stepped out of the shadows. It was the same woman that Maduna was speaking to after Sphamandla had brought Siyabonga to his shop.

"I am quite certain. I am positive that in some way that they will find the truth. It still troubles me, how did those demons learn that both Siyabonga and Sphamandla had travelled here?" asked Monica.

"You don't think that it's possible that Lebanon is stepping up his plans?" Mxolisi asked.

"I am not certain Mxolisi. All I know is that I cannot allow Lebanon to obtain the power that is possessed by those two.

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It is already bad enough that Lebanon has partial control over the younger one." replied Monica.

"Do you think they will succeed in completing the prophecy?" asked Mxolisi.

"Let me ask you this Mxolisi, after teaching Sphamandla how to use some of his power what do you believe?" Monica asked.

"I believe that it could be possible. I have never witnessed a person who never took to magic so easily or so naturally. If magic is due to re-emerge back into the world, I have a strong feeling that those two might be able to do it."

"This is why we must help them as much as possible. I made a promise to the elders that I would ensure that those two would complete the destiny that has been foretold since their birth." replied Monica. Mxolisi nodded his head that he understood before Monica disappeared from his sight.

Siyabonga and Sphamandla walked heading towards the mountains as Sphamandla told Siyabonga about a prophecy and their lineage.

"I have a feeling that the two are intertwined somehow."

Sphamandla stated. ‘How do you figure that?’ Siyabonga asked mentally.

"When I was training with Mxolisi, it felt natural for me to use my magic even though I have never used magic before.

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And remember those demons something about a prophecy when they attacked us." replied Sphamandla.

‘Strange as it may sound Sphamandla. I think you have something there. Even I am beginning to feel at home in this demonic body and using some of my demonic powers Although I am still fighting against the demon inside of me.

How do you think this Sabelo was able to keep his humanity?’

"I am not certain. I suppose that you can ask him when we find him." replied Sphamandla.

They continued on finally reaching the mountain.

Sphamandla looked up at the mountain wondering how he was going to climb up this sheer mountain as he couldn't see any foot holds or hands holds and there didn't appear to be any paths. They could spend hours looking for a way for Sphamandla to head up the mountain.

‘Sphamandla I will scout around to see if I can find a way to go up this mountain that doesn't involve me carrying you.’

Siyabonga stated. It would be easier for Siyabonga to continue on his own but he remembered what Maduna and Mxolisi had told him.

"Alright Siyabonga, I will wait here." Sphamandla replied sitting down on to a nearby rock. Siyabonga spread out his wings taking off into the sky. Siyabonga felt free as he circled the mountains flying high above the clouds. It scared him at how natural it were beginning to feel even though he was trapped in a demon form. He just hoped that the demon 52 | I N N E R D E M O N

inside of him didn't manage to take him over again. So far he has been able to suppress the demon but it seemed that the demon made half of him to grow stronger. Siyabonga flew around spotting a couple of small paths on the mountain.

The only thing was that they were on the opposite side of the mountain. Siyabonga flew back towards Sphamandla as something seemed to feel back towards Sphamandla as something seemed to feel off to him. Suddenly without warning Siyabonga was attacked by a dragon. The dragon forced Siyabonga down to the ground as the dragons claws tore into the fabric of Siyabonga's wings. Siyabonga screamed and howled in pain as his scythed tail swung swiping at the dragon. The dragon backed off of Siyabonga snarling as Siyabonga snarled back. His wings were a mangled mess as the dragon moved to attack Siyabonga again. Siyabonga dodged out of the way as part of the demon reared its head fighting against the dragon. Instinct kicked in as Siyabonga fought against the dragon as the power began to flow inside of Siyabonga's body. As the dragon took a couple of swipes at Siyabonga, the power surged forth from out of Siyabonga's fingers tips zapping the dragon as his scythed tail swung digging into the dragon's scales. The dragon roared as fire began to spew from its mouth.

Suddenly without warning something attacked the dragon from behind.

Sphamandla could feel something was wrong when Siyabonga didn't come right back. When Sphamandla looked up he could see a dragon heading in the direction that Siyabonga went in.

53 | I N N E R D E M O N

‘Oh no Siyabonga!’ Sphamandla thought to himself as he scrambled to his feet running in the same direction that both Siyabonga and the dragon went in. The dragon could really hurt Siyabonga and Sphamandla couldn't allow his brother to be hurt. Sphamandla arrived to see Siyabonga down onto the ground. Both of his wings were a mangled mess as magic sparked from his fingertips at the dragon. Sphamandla summoned up his magic attacking the dragon getting its attention. Siyabonga jumped on top of the beast driving his scythed tail into the dragon as the dragon roared as the fire blast missed Sphamandla. Then out of nowhere another demon appeared who was a man scorpion (a half human/half scropion that is featured from the role playing game dungeons and dragons). The demons jumped on top of the dragon stinging it with his venomous tail. Sphamandla willed another blast of magic to form in his hands much bigger than the first one.

"Siyabonga get back away!" Sphamandla yelled out as both he and the man scorpion held the dragon allowing Sphamandla to release the blast. The magic hit the dragon dead centre bringing the huge beast down. Siyabonga limped over to Sphamandla bruised and beaten. "Siyabonga are you alright?" Sphamandla asked as Siyabonga shook his head no. Sphamandla could tell that Siyabonga was in pain.

The man scorpion walked over to Siyabonga and Sphamandla. His upper human half looked to be Egyptian as his long white spiky hair fell down to his waisted he stared at both teens through his dark Amethyst glowing eyes which has cat-like slits. "Are you Sabelo? Mxolisi sent us to find you. He told us that you would be able to tell us about 54 | I N N E R D E M O N

this prophecy that the demons want to prevent from happening." stated Sphamandla.

"I am. Come with me so I can look over his wounds." Sabelo replied. Sphamandla knelt down offering to carry Siyabonga on his back. The demon didn't object as he carefully climbed onto Sphamandla's back.

"You were pretty brave to face that dragon alone Siyabonga." Sphamandla whispered to his brother. ‘Thanks for coming after me Sphamandla. That dragon would have killed me. I don't understand why it attacked me.’ Siyabonga replied.

"It is because like many of the demons that do exist in this realm, it is being controlled by Lebanon's power. Lebanon will not rest until he sees either the human destroyed or he gets full control over you." replied Sabelo as he entered a cave near the base of the mountain that was well concealed because Siyabonga never saw it. Siyabonga climbed off of his brother's back hobbling over to the fire as Sabelo carefully inspected Siyabonga's wings. Some of the wounds were healing slowly. "It will be a while before you can freely move around. That dragon certainly did a number on you. But already your powers are healing the wounds. There are very few whom are able to ignore Lebanon's commands. I am one of them. Siyabonga you can be another if you manage to purge the demon out of you. This is where you come in Sphamandla. No person alone has the power to purge a demon by their selves. Both of you together have incredible powers but Lebanon only needs one of you. According to the 55 | I N N E R D E M O N

prophecy, one of the two shall possess the darkness the other light. Only together shall have the power to destroy evil and bring about magic to the world. But if you shall fall then evil will reign supreme." stated Sabelo.

"That explains why those demons wanted me dead. Without me Siyabonga wouldn't stand a chance against Lebanon's power. I am the only one who is preventing Lebanon from having his way." added Sphamandla.

"Technically the demons weren't even supposed to be here which means Lebanon know what you are up to and plans to stop both of you no matter what." ‘Something has been bothering me Sabelo. How were you able to keep your humanity? Siyabonga asked mentally.

"My sister. She died in order to save me from Lebanon's control. Now she acts as a guardian making sure that Lebanon's plans never come to pass. Both of us possessed powers much like you when I came into contact with Lebanon's book and this happened to me. She turned to both Mxolisi and Maduna for help. We never made it to see Ashanti because she died while trying to purge me of my demon. Now I remain here to help others who happens to fall under Lebanon's curse." replied Sabelo.

"Sabelo you and your sister, do you know how you got your powers. Or did it just suddenly appear?" asked Sphamandla.

"From what I had found out, it happens to be in our family’s blood. It is probably no different for you. But I can't tell you 56 | I N N E R D E M O N

whom had the power for you have to discover that for yourself." replied Sabelo. At least Sphamandla and Siyabonga knew a little bit more about the prophecy, Lebanon's plans, and how magic happened to be a part of them.

57 | I N N E R D E M O N

Uncommon Revelation

After Siyabonga's wounds and wings were completely healed, Sabelo told them about a path that lead up the mountain.

"But this path is very hazardous. There is no telling what creatures exist deep inside of this cave and if they will attack you or not. You two will have to rely solely on each other to make it up the path. Along the way you may also discover the truth. Only by knowing the truth will Ashanti agree to train the two of you. Use the clues that you were given to figure out the truth about your lineage and the powers that you are capable of. I wish you both the best of luck and I hope that you both succeed where my sister and I failed."

Sabelo stated.

"Thank you Sabelo for everything. Come on Siyabonga, we have a long journey ahead of us." Sphamandla replied as both teens walked off heading up the path.

58 | I N N E R D E M O N

Once both of the teens were out of Sabelo's sight, he turned to his sister.

"Do you think that they will actually pass the trial that lies ahead of them?" Sabelo asked. Monica turned to her brother slowly nodding her head yes.

"They have definitely come a long way and have already passed some of the tests that laid ahead of them. Now comes the hardest part. I just hope that I am right about what I am placing those two through. Unlike us they don't know that their father's had a hand in magic. The twins, one of darkness and the other of light, their children are destined to flow down their path. I hope and pray that they manage to pass the hardest test that lays ahead of them." replied Monica.

"I hope that you are right sister. I could definitely sense the demon within Siyabonga growing stronger. Even though they don't know about their heritage, they definitely are more powerful in their magic than we were even with the little bit of training that Sphamandla had been through."

Sabelo stated.

Sphamandla and Siyabonga walked along the path slowly as Siyabonga used his magic to create a floating fire ball to follow them. There were a few thin patches that had to have Siyabonga walk upright using either the wall or Sphamandla's shoulder for support. Going up the path was very slow going because the path was very slick or crumbling beneath their feet. Suddenly without warning part of the path crumbled beneath Sphamandla's feet as he 59 | I N N E R D E M O N

began to fall. Siyabonga reacted quickly as his scythed tail snaked out grabbing Sphamandla coiling around his body.

Siyabonga's hands and feet dug into the rock wall.

‘Hang on Sphamandla!’ Siyabonga hissed mentally as he had to be careful about the scythed end of his tail.

‘Just drop him human, he is not worth it. He wouldn't save you if something happened.’ hissed the demon mentally.

‘Shows you what you know. My brother Sphamandla has always been there for me. He even got me out of trouble a few times. I will never betray my brother, he is the only family that I have. All we have is each other on this trip.’

Siyabonga snapped back mentally as he carefully lifted Sphamandla up to a stable part of the path. Siyabonga breathed a sigh of relief that he was able to push the demon down and save Sphamandla's life. But how much longer can he keep the demon at bay? Siyabonga carefully climbed over to where his brother was troubled over the demon inside of him, getting Lebanon's book, and what Sabelo had said about having their special powers. Siyabonga never met his father and he could spending countless times with his mom and their grandpa. He has never seen them exhibited any usual powers even after Siyabonga became curse and his mother had died of natural causes.

"Thank you Siyabonga that was definitely a close one." replied Sphamandla as Siyabonga sat down on his back legs looking at his brother. It struck him odd how they used to look so much alike as they bared a few similarities to their mother. Kids will often look like both of their parents. But 60 | I N N E R D E M O N

Siyabonga and Sphamandla looked like not only their mother but also each other.

‘Sphamandla I have a question and I want you to truthfully answer me. Did you ever meet my father?’ he asked mentally. Sphamandla looked at Siyabonga who seemed troubled by his thoughts.

"Honestly no Siyabonga, all I know was what mom told me.

But I can distinctly remember one time when dad seemed different. It was around the time when mom got pregnant with you. It was if my father wasn't whom he appeared to be but someone else. What are you thinking?" Sphamandla asked as he sat down on the path.

‘Just something seems wrong like how come we look so much like each other and a little like mom. I can't remember a single time when we weren't with mom and/or grandpa. I don't ever recall them having any unique powers.’ Siyabonga stated.

"I see your point Siyabonga. The only thing points to our fathers. I was given my father's last name even though he and mom never truly married as something there was it possible that maybe our fathers had this power. I can remember dad leaving for great lengths of time with no explanation why. And what was the real reason why mom told me to look after you and keep you out of trouble. Was it possible that she knew something and kept it from us?"

Sphamandla asked as he got back up to his feet and began walking being followed by Siyabonga.

61 | I N N E R D E M O N

The two teens continued quietly up the path helping one another out in tight spots. Both of them never said a word as they thought over what they have been told and what they could remember. Something in Sphamandla's mind clicked when he remembered what Sabelo had told them about the prophecy. Light, that was his father's first name he could remember when his father told him that he had a younger brother.

‘What on Earth was his name?’ Sphamandla thought to himself as he looked at Siyabonga for answers. Even though Siyabonga was a demon he could still seem the same similarities in their appearance. The answer then struck him as he wasn't watching where he was going as he slipped off of the path.

"Sphamandla!" Siyabonga shouted diving after his brother grabbing a firm hold of Sphamandla's shoulders with his clawed feet as Sphamandla screamed in pain. Siyabonga flew him and Sphamandla up the path looking for a smooth surface. The smell of blood was overpowering him as the demon twitched his fangs.

‘Kill him, feed me!’ it roared as Siyabonga desperately fought against it.

‘No I won't. He is my brother!’

‘He is nothing but food. Kill him, free me, feed our hunger.’

"Siyabonga watch out!" Sphamandla screamed as something shot out of the darkness bolting straight for them. The 62 | I N N E R D E M O N

creature swiped Sphamandla from out of Siyabonga's claws as he flew right into a huge spider web. The demon hissed as he tried to free himself from the web. Sphamandla was tossed hard into a hanging stalagmite. As he got a better look at the creatures that had him. The raven (a human-like raven monster featured in the dungeons and dragons roleplaying game) pecked at Sphamandla's wounds slashing at Sphamandla's skin with its claws. Sphamandla screamed in pain as it saw a huge giant spider (a monster featured in the dungeons and dragons role-playing game) heading down for Siyabonga who laid tangled in its web.

"Hurry up and kill the human Raven so that Lebanon can have his prize. The demon is about to break the human half of him." the spider hissed in a feminine voice. Sphamandla's powers surged forth from deep inside of his body. He could feel a strong bright warm light radiating from inside of his body.

"NO! Not when I had just finally figured it out. Not when I recall who I really am!" Sphamandla shouted out as both the power and light released from his body sending the raven flying away. Sphamandla who was radiating light looked at the spider as wings of light seemed to emerge from his back.

"You will release my brother at once creature if you value your life!" Sphamandla stated as Sphamandla's voice sounded different more angelic. The spider hissed at Sphamandla as the raven moved to attack Sphamandla.

"Not when we are so close. You can't have him, he is ours!" the spider hissed.

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"He was never yours. Nobody can control him. Only I have been able to since because we are brother's bound by blood.

One of light and the other of darkness, we are our father's sons. Destined to stop evil and bring about the age of magic." Sphamandla replied as he summoned to his hand a sword of light flying at the two attacking creatures. His sword cut the raven in half destroying it instantly as he flew towards the spiders web. The spider hissed as it summoned up other demons to keep Sphamandla away from her web.

Siyabonga watched as his brother was engulfed by light as he heard what Sphamandla had said. Sphamandla had figured it out as it unleashed a power that Siyabonga hadn't seem before but he seemed to recognize it.

‘You must remember who you are my brother, we are two sides of the same coin. Remember the prophecy. My father's name was Light Langa and he had a brother, a twin brother named Dark Langa. We are their sons we are destined to follow down their path. Expel the demon within you and remember who you truly are deep inside!’ stated an angelic voice mentally within his mind. He could feel the light penetrating deep into him. A familiar feeling washed over him as he remembered.

‘Yes I remember. I am the son of Dark Langa the keeper of the dark magic, twin brother to the son of Light Langa the keeper of the light magic. We two have been chosen to complete our father's work in preventing evil from its goals.’

Siyabonga hissed mentally as dark energy engulfed him.

‘This is why Lebanon sent me the book he wants to control 64 | I N N E R D E M O N

the darkness that is with inside of me. This is why our mother sought to protect us. She knew about them and their powers. She knew that something would happen to us but she never pictured this. I will not allow my brother to fight alone.’ Siyabonga roared mentally as the dark energy engulfed his body. The creatures hissed and screamed in pain as they were vaporized when the light and dark power collided. Energy shot out of the mountain freeing Siyabonga of the web and destroying the spider. Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla flew to the top of the mountain. When they landed they collapsed from pure exhaustion not realizing that they had passed all of the trials that were in front of them as they knew now who and what they are. Both collapsed falling unconscious as a strange man approached them both.

65 | I N N E R D E M O N

Ashanti The Wizard

Ashanti arrived to see two beings land on top of the mountain close to his home. Their bodies were radiating energy on two different spectrums. One who was a human was engulfed in light, the other who was a demon was engulfed in darkness. The two collapsed when the energy dissipated having them fall unconscious.

"So they have made it and have passed all of the tests that I had placed before them. Now the hard part of their journey can truly begin." he stated as with a wave of his hand the two teen bodies magically lifted up following Ashanti as he headed into the temple home. He placed both teens in separate rooms allowing them to rest.

When Sphamandla regained consciousness his whole entire body and head pounded in pain. He let out a long moan as he stretched out his body. Memories came flooding into his head of what had happened. Sphamandla's father was named Light Langa the keeper of light, a wizard that controlled the powers of light. His twin brother, Siyabonga's father was 66 | I N N E R D E M O N

named Dark Langa the keeper of darkness, a wizard that controlled the powers of darkness. The twin brothers were alike in every aspect but their mannerisms were completely different. They both knew that Lebanon wouldn't rest until he had the powers possessed by Dark. In an effort to keep Lebanon from getting what he wants, the twins fell in love with the same woman who gave birth to their children. The twins had passed on part of their power and their essence into their sons to keep Lebanon from it. Somehow in some way Lebanon had found out after he had killed the twins.

That is the reason why Lebanon had sent his book to Siyabonga. It explained why both Siyabonga and Sphamandla looked like each other despite the difference in their age. Sphamandla slowly got up venturing out of the room that he was in. Outside of his door stood a bald headed Chinese man who had a Chinese symbol tattooed in the middle of his forehead.

"Ah I see that you finally woke up. I am here to bring you to my master when you awoke. So please follow me." he stated.

Sphamandla followed the man as they walked through the huge temple as he could see Siyabonga following the same man the only thing was that he had a different Chinese symbol tattooted in the middle of his forehead. The teens followed the men to what appeared to be the main meeting area. A young looking man sat on what appeared to be an old looking thrown as he had long aqua blue-green hair and two different colour eyes. A smile stretched across his Caucasian face when he saw Sphamandla and Siyabonga.

67 | I N N E R D E M O N

"Thank you Untouchable brothers. Welcome Siyabonga Mlangeni and Sphamandla Langa, I am the wizard Ashanti.

You both have passed the trail that I had placed before you to see if you were both worthy of the power that was given to you. Usually the guardians of light and darkness are chosen by the elders whom control magic. Both of your father's were the guardians until Lebanon had killed them.

Unfortunately because of what happened to you Siyabonga, I can't remove the curse that Lebanon's book had placed on you however, you have managed to purge the demonic half of you allowing you to keep your humanity." stated Ashanti.

"So what happens now that we know who and what we are?" asked Sphamandla.

"You both will train in order to fully understand what you are capable of. This maybe the only way that you may stop Lebanon's plans. Unfortunately all we know is that he wants the power of darkness to destroy the light but, we don't know his true intentions." replied Ashanti. Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla looked at each other realizing that things were going to start changing for them.

Ashanti began training them after he had shown them both around the temple. The Untouchable brothers even assisted Ashanti in training Siyabonga and Sphamandla. Both Sphamandla and Siyabonga proved to be quick studies in learning how to use the power that they had.

"You both have a long way to go but you two pretty much already have an understanding of what you are capable of.

As you have no doubt already experienced your powers do 68 | I N N E R D E M O N

become stronger with certain emotions. And Siyabonga even though you have freed yourself of the demon that was with inside of you. You will still be able to have fits of demonic rage and other certain tendencies, which is natural for all demons." stated Ashanti.

"But why can't I?" Siyabonga stated in a guttered voice trying to speak.

"It will take time for your demonic tongue to get used to speaking in English. For now you have to rely on your telepathic powers in order to convey your thoughts."

Ashanti answered.

"People don't have to be telepathic to hear you. Just sometimes it is easier if they do possess telepathy. Almost everyone whom has been blessed with magic have this power." the Untouchable brothers stated in unity.

"Ashanti there is still one thing I don't understand, how come we are the ones who are destined to bring magic back into the world?" asked Sphamandla.

"Originally it was your father's job but since Lebanon had killed them both, their rights, powers, and responsibility have been passed onto you two. Lebanon has already killed almost everyone whom has magic within them. The only ones who have any magic left are the ones that you have meet on your journey." replied Ashanti.

"Even the elders are gone. If Siyabonga is to remain in your world then magic has to be reborn. This world is slowly 69 | I N N E R D E M O N

merging with your world. Unfortunately no one has noticed the change yet but, they will soon. This is why we need someone from that realm to help user in the age of magic." added in the Untouchable brothers. What everyone had said made sense. Demons weren't supposed to exist in the world that Siyabonga and Sphamandla came from. Magic is what cursed Siyabonga and was holding him to his present form.

Who could tell what would happen to Siyabonga without magic to hold him together. After their short break both Sphamandla and Siyabonga continued in their training until night fall.

"You are both welcomed to stay here until you feel that you no longer need your training. Eventually you both will have to face against Lebanon and his army." stated Ashanti as both Siyabonga and Sphamandla took him up on his offer.

They just hoped that they could live up to every bodies expectations.

70 | I N N E R D E M O N

Battle Against Lebanon

It had been two weeks since Siyabonga's transformation into a demon, two weeks since they had first traveled to the magic realm in order to learn about the powers that they had and to learn the truth about everything that was going on. Siyabonga and Sphamandla began missing their family and friends as they wondered how they were doing. But in the time since they have been here, they have learned how to fully control the powers that they have as it seemed that their powers seemed even stronger than Ashanti. Both Mxolisi and Sabelo even came up to aid in training both Siyabonga and Sphamandla. Sabelo taught Siyabonga about some of the powers that he possessed as a demon as he taught him how to use and control that power. Within the two weeks that both felt like they were ready to face against Lebanon. Even though they haven't fully completed the prophecy, they both felt that the only way to complete their destiny was to destroy Lebanon.

Lately in the middle of the night Sphamandla would wake up drenched in sweat. In his dreams he could see things that 71 | I N N E R D E M O N

happened to his father Light and his twin brother Dark. He couldn't understand why he was having these dreams. And the dreams felt so real to be more than dreams. One night Sphamandla woke up in a cold sweat over the dream that he just had. Suddenly Sphamandla could hear someone scratching at his door. Sphamandla got up walking over to the door, when he opened the door Siyabonga collapsed in the room as he was badly beaten up. Sphamandla picked up his little brother into his arms.

"Siyabonga what happened?" Sphamandla asked. Siyabonga never answered his question as he went unconscious.

Sphamandla had a memory flashback to a similar moment involving his father Light and his brother Dark.

Dark collapsed into Light's room after knocking on his bedroom door. Dark's body was bloody and bruised.

"Dark what happened to you?" Light asked.

"It's Lebanon, he is on our world. He attacked me trying to get his book back. You did manage to take care of the book?" asked Dark.

"Yes, I sealed it in another dimension that is beyond his reach. Hopefully the book will never fall into the boys hands.

Do you think we did the right thing without speaking to the elders?" Light asked as he began to treat Dark's wounds.

"To tell you honestly Light, I don't think those elders have any clue of what is going on in the realms. Besides I can't allow Lebanon to have my power to kill you. In order to 72 | I N N E R D E M O N

protect our sons and to ensure the safety of the world, I think that we did the right thing." replied Dark.

"I am actually surprised that Rebecca agreed to do what we proposed to her. But then again she could never decide between the two of us."

"What surprises me is that your son Sphamandla seemed to realize in some way or form that I was not you. It shows you that they are already beginning to show signs of the power that we have given to them. I trust that you already said your farewells to Sphamandla and Rebecca?"

"Yes I have, did you manage to see Siyabonga?"

"Yes I did. Are you ready to face Lebanon?"

"Of course I am ready. Let's go?" replied Light.

Sphamandla snapped back into consciousness. Was history repeating itself? Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla were walking down the same path as their fathers. No doubt Lebanon had attacked Siyabonga in his dreams. Sphamandla added his power into to heal his wounds quicker.

‘Siyabonga we can't hold back any longer, we have to face Lebanon. He has already broken through to boarders back home. We may be the only ones who can stop him.’

Sphamandla told his brother mentally.

‘I understand Sphamandla. We are about as ready as we are going to be. Leave his demonic army to me. You have to be 73 | I N N E R D E M O N

the one to stop Lebanon. Only the powers of light can defeat evil.’ Siyabonga replied as he slowly opened up his eyes.

Sphamandla remembered clearly what Sabelo said about the prophecy. ‘No Siyabonga we do this together or have you forgotten what Sabelo had told us about the prophecy? We must do this together in order to defeat Lebanon and to bring magic to the world.’ Sphamandla stated.

"Sphamandla is right Siyabonga. That is where your father's failed. They knew the prophecy but didn't understand it.

Only through the unity of the powers of light and darkness can Lebanon be destroyed." added in Ashanti.

"We will help you as much as possible but it will be up to you two to stop Lebanon." added in Mxolisi as the Untouchable brothers nooded their heads in agreement.

Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla looked at each other as they both realized that this battle would decide everything.

Ashanti had teleported everyone to the Earth realm as Maduna was there to greet them.

"Thank goodness that you are here the realm is in chaos because of Lebanon and his army. There is very little that I can do alone." stated Maduna. All of the men and the two teens headed off for the centre of town in Riverland City where Lebanon was causing the most chaos. The demon Lebanon was an all-black creature with glowing all red eyes which had no visible irises and/or pupils. Lebanon looked to be two creatures merged together as he appeared to be half 74 | I N N E R D E M O N

demon and half dragon. An evil and wicked grin stretched across the demons face when he saw the one who planned to stop him.

"So at last all of my prey shows themselves. Do you honestly think you can stop me you pitiful mortals. None can stand up to me. Already one of you have fallen into my power." the demon laughed in a hearty deep voice. Siyabonga let out a low guttered snarl at the demon who had ruined his life.

Never again could he be human as he now a monster as he can never assume his normal life. All of Siyabonga's hopes and dreams for his future have been crushed. A part of him wanted to rip out Lebanon's throat. But Siyabonga control his demonic nature not allowing Lebanon to get to him.

"Lebanon you will pay for what you have done to our fathers and what did to my little brother. We will not allow you to do what you want to our world." yelled Sphamandla as magic surged in his fingertips. The demon laughed out loud which shook the earth.

"I would love to see you try to stop me!" he roared as he signalled his army to attack. ‘Protect the humans, leave Lebanon to us.’ Siyabonga yelled out telepathically as he starred at the demon. Sphamandla's power gathered in his hands as the wings of light emerged from out of his back. Both brother's hit the demon together as the blast seemed not to phase the demon.

"Is that all that you've got?" he asked as he zapped both teens with his power. Siyabonga quickly recovered as he 75 | I N N E R D E M O N

dove after Sphamandla grabbing his brother by the shoulders with his clawed feet. Sphamandla screamed in pain as Lebanon sent another blast after another at the two. Both teens were sitting ducks as all they could do was draw up a barrier to protect themselves.

‘Sphamandla we have to do something. Our barrier won't last much longer!’ Siyabonga told Sphamandla telepathically.

History was definitely repeating itself as this is how their father's died.

‘I know Siyabonga!’ Sphamandla replied as he could see those whom were fighting alongside of them failing in holding back the demons. Evil was winning. Sphamandla could feel Siyabonga's own dark powers over powering him.

Within his own being he could feel and sense a light glimmer of hope. ‘People of Riverland City, don't give up.

You must keep hope alive in your hearts. Believe in yourselves and your own power. Only together do we have the strength to overcome evil.’ Sphamandla cried out mentally. Sphamandla could feel the light of hope growing with inside of him as power engulfed both his and Siyabonga's body. Power vibrated their very beings mering their powers together.

"No it's not possible! Not when I was so close!" howled Lebanon as the light from Siyabonga's and Sphamandla's bodies formed into a being of light and darkness. The guardians of light and darkness were finally reborn. The being looked at Lebanon and his demon army. With a wave of its attention to Lebanon.

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"Lebanon we will no longer stand by and allow you to torture innocent people transforming them into demons.

And we will never allow you to have our powers. You leave us with no choice but to destroy you in order to keep the peace in the realms." the being stated in a mix of Sphamandla's and Siyabonga's voice together as a bright light began to crack through Lebanon's body.

"NO, you can't do this. That power should rightfully be mine!" Lebanon howled as he stretched out one of his monstrous hands towards the being as it stop short breaking apart in bright lights. Lebanon's body shattered apart like glass as the darkness seemed to lift away

77 | I N N E R D E M O N

The Fulfilment Of The Prophecy

Once Lebanon was destroyed, the being of light and darkness began to separate transforming back into Siyabonga and Sphamandla. Before the being completely disappeared its powers flooded outwards before completely disappearing. Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla returned back to normal as they began to fall from the sky unconscious. Those whom were there with them to fight against Lebanon used their powers to catch the falling teens.

Everyone whom had seen what had happened were confused by how two teens alone could stop such a huge demon.

Ashanti was elected crowd control as he had to let everyone know what had just happened. Maduna took the two unconscious teens back to his shop where they could rest seeing how they did what their father's couldn't do by fulfilling the prophecy and destroying Lebanon once and for all!

After meeting with the television news crews whom had covered the event as it happened and meeting with the newspaper reporters, the ones whom helped Siyabonga and 78 | I N N E R D E M O N

Sphamandla then went to Maduna's shop after completing their tasks.

"How are they doing Maduna?" asked Ashanti.

"They are resting quite comfortably. It's strange though because I can already feel my power returning back to full strength even though I felt it disappearing." stated Maduna.

"Even some of the humans that had witnessed the event even said that they had felt something enter into their bodies. I am surprised that they had managed to complete the prophecy." stated Mxolisi.

"But still we can't help to feel sorry for all of those that ended up cursed because of Lebanon's book." added in the Untouchable brothers in unison.

"Speaking of which what should we do with the book? I don't think that there is a way to destroy that book and it is still unsafe to keep it in any realm whether or not Lebanon has been destroyed." asked Ashanti.

"We will take care of the book since it is our responsibility." replied two teen voices. Everyone turned to see Siyabonga and Sphamandla were standing right behind them.

"How do you guys feel?" asked Maduna. Sphamandla rubbed his shoulders which were still healing from the wounds that Siyabonga had inflicted.

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"Sore." replied Sphamandla as a look of guilt stretched across Siyabonga's face.

"I am sorry Sphamandla, I just reacted." Siyabonga replied in perfect English. His voice was still a little bit guttered but you could understand him better now than before. All of the men looked at him shocked. Ever since they had first meet Siyabonga, all he has been able to speak is telepathically.

"It's alright Siyabonga, I understand. So what happens now that we have full filled the prophecy?" asked Sphamandla.

"You all must teach those who end up developing magic powers how to control and to use their magic wisely.

Siyabonga because of your demonic form you can choose to remain living here in the world that you know or to live in the magic world. Because of what happened, the magic world has stabilized thanks to the powers of light and darkness.

Unfortunately not even the gods themselves can undo the curse that was inflicted onto you." replied a female voice.

Both Siyabonga and Sphamandla turned to see an Egyptian woman floating in the room as she was clearly transparent as her appearance resembled Sabelo's.

"Monica, have you told Sabelo that?" asked Ashanti.

"Yes I have. And my brother has already made his decision known to me. I know that we have not meet Siyabonga Mlangeni and Sphamandlai Langa but you have meet my brother Sabelo. My name is Monica Sehodi and I was elected the guardian of magic. But, that duty and right actually belongs to two." stated Monica.

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"I would like to remain here in world where all of my friends and family live. It doesn't matter to me if I can't become human again as I have somewhat grown used to this form." replied Siyabonga gruffly. Even though he would never admit it he was going to miss out on things that he used to be able to do when he was human. Monica seemed to understand Siyabonga's reply as she radiated energy which expelled from her body spreading outward. Once the energy had disappeared Monica turned her attention back to Siyabonga and Sphamandla.

"It is done. Your wish has been made known as this world knows whom and what you two are. Your life maybe a little bit chaotic at first but eventually things will return back to normal." stated Monica.

After bidding farewell to their new friends, Siyabonga and Sphamandla headed back home.

"Do you think it is wise for me to go back home Sphamandla even if I am not human?" Siyabonga asked as he walked alongside his brother.

"I told you that Grandpa doesn't care. He wanted me to bring you home. And I don't think that it will matter to our friends either because you are still the same person even though you look different." replied Sphamandla as Siyabonga let out a long sigh.

"I wish that I could be as confident as you." stated Siyabonga as they arrived back home. Sphamandla opened the front door to see all of their friends and family were 81 | I N N E R D E M O N

waiting for their arrival. They were watching the news broadcast as Siyabonga stood behind his brother afraid of what they would say. Their grandfather was the first to move as he gave both teens a huge hug as Siyabonga seemed to relax a little bit.

"Thank goodness that you are back home and all in one piece. I almost couldn't believe what I saw on the news. You have got to tell us everything that happened." stated Mr. Mlangeni.

Several weeks had gone by after Sphamandla and Siyabonga had used their powers to stop Lebanon. True to Monica's word, everyone knew about Siyabonga's special condition as he was allowed to continue with his school work as both Sphamandla and Siyabonga set up a small shop in order to train any and all whom developed magic as they hoped that there would never come a time where they would have to use the powers that they have to save the world ever again.

As for Lebanon's book, they arranged for an unmanned shuttle to blast the book into the heart of the sun where it would never come into contact with anyone ever again causing any more human beings to fall prey to Lebanon's curse!

THE END!

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Bracken Mkhuma is a student author who lives in Johannesburg, South Africa. He grew up in South Africa and did his secondary education in Letare Secondary School from the year 2012 to 2016 and he is currently doing his tertiary studies under a BSc Actuarial Science and Mathematical Statistics at the University of Johannesburg. Bracken’s goals in life are simple—to complete his studies, to secure a better future for His loved ones, and also to keep writing books for as long as he possible can. Join Bracken’s mailing list at brackenmkhuma.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BrackenMkhuma, Linkedin@ Bracken Mkhuma, twitter @MkhumaBracken and by email at brackenwaters@gmail.com

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