Chapter 30: Manasseh, Deceiver of Bloods caught red-handed!
It's a regular day for Manasseh the merchant. The sun is high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the town of Rouen, and the smell of freshly baked bread wafts from the local bakery, mingling with the faint scent of the divine ashes from the bricks. She's in her office, surrounded by piles of paperwork and the occasional whine from a tired carrier pigeon. The white stones of the town's buildings reflect the light, giving the entire area an ethereal quality. But today, she's feeling a bit more...cautious than usual.
She glanced at the wordless guards beside her, the mercaneries without a single word. Their tall statures and stoic expressions made it clear they were not there for small talk. The office was a stark contrast to the bustling town outside, filled with the scent of ink and the quiet shuffling of parchments.
It's a life she has gotten used to for hundreds of years, and this day is no exception for her. She will achieve what she sets out to do.
"It's unfortunate...mother. At the end this is a worthless fate."
She sighed as she leaned back in her chair, as she drew out something from her pocket. It is a silk scarf, the first product she crafted herself when she discovered the special properties of silk from the Chiraz's Mercy, one that would have saved her clan from destruction. Alas, the war was a cruel joke, and she was the only one left to enjoy the spoils.
"Lady Manasseh." The door outside buzzed of a familiar voice, along with the heavy sounds of metal footsteps and clingings of swords. The guards beside her snapped to attention, their hands moving to their weapons.
"It's time..." Manasseh chuckled in defeat, she glanced at the scarf one last time, before leaving her seat.
"Come in, Mary."
The door creaked open, revealing Mary her loyal assistant.
"You've done well. I've a last gift for you."
A smile of a gently hunter curled up, as Manasseh handed out her silk scarf.