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“Fine.”
“Do you not find it suspicious how Vippera tried to have me drink poisoned wine? Not only did she not let either of you have some, but she didn’t even join me for the tasting.”
“It may be strange, but maybe things are done differently in Jalma,” says my father.
At that moment, I recall the information that Rory told me yesterday. I had forgotten about it in my frustration.
“Shit, I just remembered something!” I exclaim, throwing my hands together. “Mother, Father, there’s been a development since yesterday’s events.”
“What might that be?” asks my father, clearly unimpressed.
“Another attempt will be made to take my life tonight, during The Hunt itself.”
“Do tell?” asks my mother.
“Vippera had made arrangements with hitmen to orchestrate a grandaccident, so I’ve been told.”
“Wait a minute, who told you this?”
I rear back in my chair, glancing between them. They’re my parents so I choose to be honest with them but withhold names for the time being.
“Trusted sources of mine that see Vippera for who she really is.”
“Well… if it’s true then surely we should hold off on The Hunt!” exclaims my mother.
“No, let it go ahead,” I say insistently.
“Not that I believe you, but why go through with it if your life is in danger?” asks my father.
“Because these associates of mine will help me foil the plan and come out of it alive. Now then, do I still sound crazy to you?”
My mother dashes away her tears as she exchanges a look with my father. A glimmer of belief appears in their eyes as they turn back to face me.
“Alright, son, if this conspiracy of yours is true… Then maybe, and let me emphasize thatmaybe, your mother and I will give consideration to calling off the engagement.”
I can’t believe the words coming from their mouths. I chuckle in amazement that I’ve seemingly gotten through to them.
“Thank you,” I say calmly.
“Well, your mother and I will be on our way then. In the meantime, I advise you to prepare yourself for The Hunt. Guards shall come around later with your gear. Your mother and I will be watching, good luck.”
My father swiftly heads for the door. As my mother stands, I reach out for her hand and plant on it a gentle kiss. She smiles sweetly for a brief moment.
“Khatreya! Let’s go!”
I’m left alone. At least now I’ve one problem taken care of, though very loosely at that. It’s clear neither of them fully believe me, but I’ve got them where I need them.
The danger of The Hunt still looms in my mind. Despite knowing of the presence of assassins, there’s still the chance they can succeed in their hit on me if I’m not careful.
I busy myself preparing physically and mentally for the evening, ensuring my casting skills are on point as well as my hand to hand combat abilities.
After a few hours, guards enter my room, handing me a set of training leathers. The fabric allows for maximum protection with enhanced maneuverability, perfect for the occasion.
Once I’m ready, the guards escort me downstairs, bringing me to a set of doors. Outside the doors are the fields leading into the forest. Through it, I can hear the excited crowds gathering.
It’s the first royal hunt in a long time, so no doubt a large audience awaits me outside.
As I stretch, a second set of guards approach me from behind. Soon I am encircled by four of them in total.
