The Merchant and Tavern Master

Hunting Ground

Fortunately, I reached the fourth carriage halt close to midnight, following the given instructions. The desolate surroundings were devoid of any presence. The moon and the faint light beneath the halt's signboard provided the only illumination. Vision was limited, with only distant lights visible as small specks. I waited patiently, noticing that the envelope from the steward had been diminished, likely due to a delayed spell.

Amidst the darkness, worry gripped me. I couldn't bear the thought of what might have befallen Isabelle and the other children, relying solely on the contents of the invitation letter. I pondered whether the shadow guard assigned to me still maintained their proximity. However, I refrained from attempting to confirm, remembering the stern admonition to avoid any form of contact with them.

Uncertain whether midnight had arrived, the sound of a horse-drawn carriage approaching prompted me to quickly don the mask obtained from the lady with the bunnies. The mask carried a lingering fragrance and felt gentle against my skin; it would have to suffice. Following instructions, I prepared three plates of gold. The amount seemed exorbitant for a mere three hours of 'entertainment', I earnestly wish that I can offer the 'Artemis' corps substantial hints so they can arrest this evil syndicate.

The black carriage came to a halt in front of the carriage stop. It appeared distinct from my previous recollection, likely privately owned. Gold accents adorned its wheels, just as described. An attendant beside the driver disembarked and opened the door. Comprehending the instructions, I placed the three plates of gold into the designated box and stepped inside. Seven individuals were already seated within. Remaining true to the instructions, none of us exchanged words. Not long after I took my seat, I sensed the carriage beginning to move once more. Unlike the public carriages, this one had small windows, making it difficult to clearly observe the scenery outside.

We came to a halt at another carriage stop, where two more individuals joined us. All of them donned masks, adhering to the instructions, which only added to the enigmatic and sinister atmosphere within the carriage. It was difficult to ascertain the exact nature of these people, but their attire was undoubtedly opulent, crafted from expensive silks and materials. Although not excessively extravagant, most of them seemed to possess a trim physique, with only three appearing fat. The realization that these affluent individuals exploited children for their amusement repulsed me. Despite my awareness that I was feigning affiliation with them, a sense of revulsion persisted.

I couldn't discern the duration for which the carriage carried us, but after a certain span of time, the motion gradually ceased, leaving only the faint tremor of stillness. The steward opened the door wordlessly, stepping aside. The nine occupants within seemed to comprehend the implication, and one by one, they disembarked. Surveying the surroundings, I recognized that we were amidst the ruins of a jungle, overgrown with moss and vegetation.

Upon exiting the carriages, I found myself greeted by the presence of a tall figure donning a mask. He stood upon a stage illuminated solely by the faint glow of standing torches. In the distance, the sounds of sobs and murmurs reached my ears.

"Welcome to this night's hunt, gentlemen. As our tradition, we will release the fairies to commence this hunting event. However, you may only begin pursuing them once I give the signal. The hunt will span three hours, during which you are free to engage with your quarry as you wish. This is your hunt. Upon completion, you must return to this very spot."

While he said that, other masked people directed his torch to a certain direction.

As he spoke, other masked individuals directed their torchlight towards a specific direction.

Suddenly, the air was filled with cries—children's cries. Though the darkness obscured their features, I could discern that these children were undernourished, a heart-wrenching realization within that fleeting moment.