Chapter 32: Hunt [2]
Night came.
The estate sat under the pale glow of the moon, its stone walls soaked in silver light.
Wind stirred through the trees, rustling leaves against the mansion windows.
Somewhere in the garden, a lone lantern swung gently, its flame barely holding.
Inside, the halls were alive.
Footsteps echoed. Voices whispered. The scent of roasted meat and baked bread filled the air.
Maids and servants moved quickly, weaving around each other, balancing trays, polishing silver, setting the long dining table under the chandelier’s dull gold light.
Alaric was among them, quiet as always. Focused. Moving at his own pace.
He ignored the occasional jab from passing servants. Shrugs. Snide looks. He didn’t bother responding.
"What happened? You’re looking a bit lost today."
Then came a soft and gentle voice from his side.