The Huntress Page 2

  Evan took a deep breath. “I see,” he said. “Thank you for being honest. I wish things could’ve been different as well, but at least we can move forward.” He picked up a document to show everyone. “This is the treaty between the Faith of Kallikratés and the Kingdom of Hema. Lady Isabella opposed this document, believing it would oppress her people once again.” He furrowed his eyebrows. “Thanks to the truth shared by Miss Ashwood, I’ve reached a solution.”

  He tore the treaty in half. The disciples looked horrified.

  One of them shouted, “You can’t do that!”

  “I already have,” Evan replied coldly. “All projects Kallikratés had requested to my office will be cancelled.” He closed his eyes. “I’m sure Lady Isabella’s spirit is resting easier now.”

  Davis nodded approvingly. “I will also follow suit.” He looked at the worshippers. “However, I’ll give a few weeks, as I’m sure it will take a while to make the transition. The Grand Cathedral and other facilities will remain open until the end of the month.”

  “Wait till the Goddess finds out!” shouted a male disciple. “Kallisto will strike you all down!”

  Mara gave a deadpanned look. “Kallisto is in no condition to be smiting anyone.” The followers gazed at her in bewilderment. She noted their facial expressions. “Oh, I guess you didn’t know…”

  Some of the followers gasped in distress.

  “The Cursed Herald slew the Goddess and Commander White?” one of them asked.

  “Yes, I killed Commander White.” Mara paused. “Kallisto was unable to contain Aazalith’s soul, and caused a magical explosion which destroyed her and brought down the mountain.”

  The huntress looked at Nigel, who was gaping at her. Mara looked away, feeling elated. This day had finally arrived.

  “Then we shall conclude this meeting,” Davis announced. “I look forward to seeing what this new year will bring.”

  “Same here,” Mara replied as she headed for the exit.

  While leaving, the huntress heard the grumblings from some of the followers.

  “Unthinkable! Kallikratés has fallen in Ardana!”

  “We’re certainly entering a darker age!”

  “It was a mistake coming back.”

  “This land was better off destroyed!”

  Mara was disgusted by their attitude. If they knew what happened, why return? Many of these nobles likely had a property in Corlin. They could have stayed in the neighbouring nation, and none would miss them. Even the Whites owned property in Corlin.

  It was time to head home. It was getting dark as Mara left the Council Hall.

  * * *

  Mara spotted the middle-aged woman from earlier. She remained paralyzed, appearing very distraught from the mugging. No guardsmen were present to assist her. Mara grew concerned, so she decided to help her. It seemed like the right thing to do.

  “Excuse me,” Mara began. “Are you okay?”

  She offered her hand to the noblewoman. The woman glanced at her. All of a sudden, she smacked Mara’s hand away.

  “Get away from me!”

  Mara yanked her hand back, stunned by the cold response. Her eyes drifted to the woman’s face, now twisted in rage. It reminded Mara of Kallisto after being reduced to an old crone.

  The woman continued to rage. “Our land is ruined! It’s all your fault!”

  Mara remained astonished, and then a range of emotions washed over her. Sadness and anger were the most prevalent. She frowned at the older woman, then walked away.

  ‘What a bitch!’

  Mara froze, shocked by the words that surfaced in her mind. The undying was not entirely wrong feeling this way. Mara was better off not helping her, for kindness did not always reward those willing to offer a helping hand.

  Mara sauntered off, ignoring any other words the noblewoman had to say.

  Chapter Two

  Lady of the Manor

  The White Manor had been Mara’s home for the past week. The large and luxurious-looking mansion had several rooms and could house an extended family with ease. Before ascending the steps, Mara spotted an unfamiliar carriage. Someone was visiting. As she took a few more steps, the door opened as if anticipating her arrival. On the other side was a man in his forties. He owned a head of black hair with some grey. His skin was pale with some wrinkles. Mara recognized him as the butler by the black suit he wore.

  “Good evening, Miss Ashwood,” the butler greeted, watching Mara with dark green eyes. “I trust you had a good day?”

  “Hello André,” Mara responded, stopping before the butler. “I did, though it was long.”

  “I see.” He gestured to the space behind him. “Please, come inside,” he beckoned. “This is your home.”

  Mara entered the manor. As soon as she got inside, she looked back at him. “I saw a carriage in front. Is someone visiting?”

  “Mr. White has invited the barrister to change his will.”

  Mara knew about the inheritance. She looked to the living room. “I’ll go see them.”

  “Of course, Miss Ashwood,” André said, “but perhaps you should look a little more presentable for guests.”

  Mara glanced down at her black Silver Thorn armour before lifting her gaze to him. “What’s wrong with this?”

  “Miss Ashwood, you are to become the Lady of the Manor.”

  Mara raised an eyebrow. “But I’m not human.”

  “I’m aware.” Then he said, “Mr. White will do everything in his power to aid you.”

  “I don’t need his money,” Mara argued. “He could’ve given me a small amount, enough to hire a ship to Thoron. I’ll figure out how to get back.”

  “Very well, but what about the rest of your human life?”

  “I’ll probably remain a hunter. That’s what Dad trained me to do.”

  “I see. I cannot tell you what to do, but please consider this—Mr. White has given you a grand opportunity. And the life of a hunter is often short, especially as a human.”

  Mara took a deep breath. “I will.”

  “Good.” André headed upstairs. “Please follow me. We shall have you prepared for the evening.”

  “Lead the way,” Mara responded.

  The butler led her into a hallway with three doors. The door on the left went to her room. The room was a massive improvement over the spare bedroom Allen and James had once prepared for her. The large bed was adorned with soft sheets, while the mahogany frame had an elegant design. The dressers shared a similar design and colour. They were all filled with a variety of clothing. Also present in the room was a large matching wardrobe. Despite having better accommodations, it was the smallest room on this floor.

  André approached the wardrobe and opened its doors. “This shall do,” he said, grabbing the first thing he saw. “First, we shall have you cleaned up.”

  Two maids entered the room.

  André glanced at them. “Prepare a bath for Miss Ashwood.”

  The maids nodded.

  “This way,” one of them beckoned.

  Mara followed them to the washing area. The maids ran a hot bath while the huntress undressed. After Mara removed her hood and mask, she undid the messy braid that fell past her shoulder blades. Then she began to remove the layers of her black Silver Thorn armour. Mara undid the open-bust corset, which held much of her attire together. She took off her gloves and boots before the matching shirt and pants. Once naked, she noticed the maids gawking at her. They took in every detail of her features, including the faded blots on her tanned skin and the scar on her lower abdomen. Gazing at Mara’s face, they saw her doll-like eyes and full lips. Her nose was not as pronounced as a Stone Mage’s because it was something inherited from Mom. The maids kept staring at her like she was some animal at a zoo. Mara heard of such places in Corlin, where living animals were locked in cages. Many people visited them for entertainment. It sounded interesting, for none of these places existed in Ardana.

  Upon entering the bathtub, the war
m water took the chill out of Mara’s body. But there was one thing preventing this moment from being perfect or relaxing. The maids remained in the room, staring at her while holding some towels.

  Mara frowned at them. “You can go.”

  The two maids exchanged glances.

  “Just leave the stuff here,” Mara said.

  The maids looked uncertain as they lowered the towels and left her alone. Once they were gone, she proceeded to clean herself.

  After cleaning herself, Mara rose out of the bathtub. She grabbed a towel and dried herself. A brush was also present, which she used to comb her dark hair. Returning to her room, Mara discovered the black and white bustle dress on the bed. Her black Silver Thorn armour was missing. The maids probably took it away to be cleaned, or at least Mara hoped. She grew very fond of the attire, for it fitted well and was comfortable. The huntress sighed and got dressed.

  * * *

  Mara emerged from her room wearing the bustle dress. A braid of dark brown hair sat over her left shoulder. Before heading downstairs, Mara’s eyes fell onto the closed door before her.

  “Miss Ashwood.”

  Mara snapped her gaze onto André, who stood before her.

  The butler studied her appearance. “I see you are ready, though I can tell you did these things by yourself.”

  “Is that a problem?” Mara asked.

  “You could have asked the maids for assistance,” André explained. “That is what they are here for.”

  “You mean they’re supposed to be there when I bathe or put on my clothes?”

  “Yes, Miss Ashwood,” he answered. “I heard you sent them away.”

  “I didn’t exactly feel comfortable with them gawking at me.”

  “My apologies, but it is rare to serve someone such as you, who will become the new heir.” The butler gazed at the closed door before them. “Master White was the original heir, and Lord of the Manor.”

  Mara gave a solemn look. “Sorry for what happened to him.”

  André changed the topic. “I shall see to dinner. You may join Mr. White in the living room.”

  The butler left Mara to her own devices.

  Mara headed to the living room. The first thing she always saw upon entering was the large portrait of the former lord, hanging above the fireplace. His green eyes watched all who entered the living room. He was adorned in his commander’s garb, looking dignified. Despite everything, Commander White remained with them in some form.

  “Ah, there you are,” called an elderly man.

  Mara broke her gaze with the portrait and spotted Mr. White sitting in his favourite chair. He looked better compared to last week, though the rapid ageing took its toll. His pure white hair, bushy beard, and moustache hid much of his wrinkles away. His blue eyes seemed brighter than usual, and he appeared to be in higher spirits. The short and round man wore a clean dark suit. Mara also noticed another man beside him and assumed he was the barrister Mr. White had invited. The barrister appeared to be at least sixty years old with semi-long greying hair. He was a little plump with pale skin. Like Mr. White, he also wore a black suit. Thick glasses adorned his face. The barrister gazed at her with a questioning glint in his eyes.

  “I see André has found some proper clothes for you,” Mr. White said in a cheerful tone.

  Mara looked down at her dress. “Not exactly used to dresses, but I guess it’ll take a while.”

  Mr. White glanced to the barrister. “I’ve added the final changes to my will.”

  The barrister frowned. “Are you sure you want this?”

  Mr. White gave a stern look. “Yes, I intend to make her the heir.”

  “I see,” the barrister said. “In addition to the changing of heirs, all funeral expenses will be paid by the estate.” He took the will and handed it over to Mr. White. He also offered a quill filled with ink. “Sign here.”

  Mr. White took the quill and signed on the dotted line. Then he handed the papers over to the barrister, who inspected everything.

  “Everything is in order.” The barrister took a copy for himself, then gazed at Mara. “To begin the process of inheritance, I must be notified of his passing.”

  “André will assist you,” Mr. White added.

  The barrister walked past Mara and left the manor. The two were now free to talk.

  “How was your day?” Mr. White inquired. “I don’t think I heard you come in.”

  “I arrived a while ago.” Mara gestured to her dress. “André insisted I clean myself up.”

  He gave a small smile. “So, he’s teaching you everything you need to know?”

  “You mean how to be civilized?” Mara questioned dryly.

  “André doesn’t mean to offend. He wishes to help in any way, and to the best of his abilities.” Then, “So, how was your day? It took you a long time to bury James.”

  “Davis requested my presence for a meeting,” Mara explained, “though I don’t know why. I’m not one for politics.”

  “Your actions have changed the fate of this land. Ardana is free from Kallisto’s control.”

  “I guess you’re right.” Mara held her hands over her lap. “It was quite a spectacle. Evan ripped up the treaty, and Davis declared Kallikratés banished from Terra. The followers weren’t pleased.”

  “It’s no surprise,” he said. “They’re only upset because they lost.”

  “They’d rather see this land destroyed.”

  Mr. White grew silent for a moment. “They likely remain poisoned by the magic. Hopefully, it will fade. But there’s one thing I do regret…” Mr. White gazed up at the portrait. “Karl,” he murmured.

  Mara also looked up at the painting. Her eyes remained locked with the cold gaze of the commander. “Do you have any regrets?”

  “Had I done more for Karl, he would still be here.”

  André arrived before the two.

  “We shall be serving dinner soon,” said the butler.

  Mr. White rose from his chair. “Good, I’m hungry.”

  Mara watched as he hobbled past her. His walking seemed worse. She remained curious about the effects of removing the spell. Instead of being in his sixties, Mr. White now appeared to be either in his late eighties or nineties. Yet, he remained happy.

  * * *

  They arrived at a grand long table with several candles sitting on top. Flames flickered and danced, offering the only source of light. Mara sat at one end while Mr. White sat opposite of her. The servants arrived with dinner. Cooked slices of beef and vegetables were on the menu tonight. One of the servants placed a plate before Mara. The meal looked very delicious. Then she noticed the array of knives and forks. There were at least three different forks and two knives. One appeared to be a butter knife while the other had a serrated edge.

  André poured her a glass of red wine. He was also watching to make sure she used the right utensils. Before deciding what to use, Mara took the napkin and placed it on her lap. The undying remembered to do this, thanks to the friendly lecture yesterday. The butler remained silent, indicating that she did the correct thing. Then she reached for the knife with the serrated edge. André stayed silent. Mara turned her gaze onto the forks. The small one was for desserts, or at least she was told. That left the other two. Mara reached for the middle one, only to hear the butler clearing his throat. It was the wrong choice! She immediately grabbed the larger one on the outside. The butler went silent.

  After serving her wine, André supervised her etiquette to make sure she made no mistakes. He then moved towards Mr. White to pour his glass. Another servant arrived with Mr. White’s meal. She was a young woman with tanned skin, dark hair and brown eyes. Seeing her reminded Mara of the many tales about Karl and how he ran the manor.

  “What is the matter?” Mr. White asked.

  Mara looked back at him, realizing that he was watching her. “Oh, it’s just… You once mentioned hiring a servant before, but Karl fired her. I thought she was…”

  “Lea from Lori
s,” Mr. White said. “I believe she returned to her homeland.”

  “Oh,” Mara murmured, gazing down at her plate. “I would’ve rehired her.”

  “So would I,” Mr. White added. “She was hard-working and kind. She reminded me of you.”

  “Is that why Karl fired her? Or was it because of her skin colour?”

  The older man gazed at his plate. “I believe it was the former. He thought I was trying to make him feel guilty.”

  “I see,” Mara responded.

  “Is there something else on your mind?” Mr. White asked.

  Mara lifted her gaze to him. “I was thinking about your meeting with the barrister.”

  He frowned at her. “If this is about the inheritance, I’m not changing my mind.”

  “I know. But you made it sound like you weren’t going to live for much longer.”

  Mr. White gave a sympathetic look. “I’m not going to live forever.”

  “Please, be honest,” Mara pleaded. “Have things grown worse?”

  “I think this was all expected for betraying Kallisto,” he replied. “I’ll admit growing old is not fun.”

  “Neither is immortality. What good is outliving all your loved ones and ending up alone?”

  “We’ll find a solution,” Mr. White assured her. “Everything will be fine.”

  “I hope so.” With her knife and fork, Mara sliced into her meal. Taking a bite, she found dinner to be delicious.

  * * *

  After a very long day, Mara sauntered up the stairs. Before entering her room, she glanced at the closed door behind her. She sensed someone was on the other side. Mara kept staring at the door, then moved towards it. No one should be in the room, but she wanted to make sure. Mara lifted her right hand and reached for the doorknob.

  “Miss Ashwood,” called the butler.

  Mara snatched her hand away and gawked at André, who stood before her. How long was he standing there?

  “Yes? What is it?” Mara asked.

  “Your nightwear has been laid out for you.”

  Mara began to relax. “Oh, thank you.”

  André nodded, then disappeared around the corner. Mara took a deep breath before looking at the closed door. Her curiosity faded away, but there would be other opportunities. And hopefully without the prying eyes of others.