The King summoned me the next day to here my answer.
"So what have you thought my son?" He asked.
"First of all, it is an honour that you have considered me worthy for such a prestigious title my lord," I said. " However there is something that you don't know about me."
"And what might that be?" The king asked.
I stood up and removed the glove on my left hand to reveal the seal of the hunters.
"My lord to you, this might be a normal mark," I said. "But the reality is, it is not just a mark. It is a curse. When we take our oath as hunters, we abide by a rule. And this is what forces us to follow the life of celibacy. If I ever marry someone and get into a relationship with her, not only will this curse kill her, but our offspring would not be a normal one rather a defected child. Our emotions are our biggest weakness. You know very well, what they did to me."
The king remained silent to my words. However, princess Sharina showed signs of astonishment.
"The princess and I talked last night." I continued. "At the moment I thought maybe it was not right to tell her about this. But overnight, I thought that if I simply decline it meant disrespected to both her and you, my lord. That is the last thing I could ever wish for. I was solely created to fight the dark. I am nothing but a warrior. That is what I meant by unworthy."
The king sighed. Sharina lowered her head. Both of them were downhearted.
"I am sorry to have asked you. I shouldn't have. Gerrid always used to say that there was a lot I did not know about this trade and that it was better this way. Little did I knew that the world you people live in is so dark and painful. I pity you both." The king said. "But anywho, at least let me reward you for your service and bid you farewell."
The king gave me three bags full of gold. I accepted the gifts and started preparing for my leave. As I was packing my bag, Sharina came to my room.
"Princess. How can I help?" I asked.
She had a stern face and I could even see tears in her eyes. She walked towards me. I expected a slap but instead, she embraced me.
"I am sorry Case. I don't know what to say." She said. "It is just so sad. I mean I can't imagine such a life. A life without anyone by your side, all alone in the dark."
I grabbed Sharina's shoulders.
"Who said I am alone? I have my master with me. His memories. The king and you of course." I said. "Not as a companion maybe but as a friend," I said. " Yes, I am in the dark. But you guys are my light. My torch."
Sharina smiled at me.
"Will I see you again?" She asked.
"I don't know. But I will return if I could." I answered.
"Then I will be waiting," Sharina said.
I picked my bag to leave the room. Before I went out I turned.
"Good-Bye Sharina. Take care." I said.
"Good-bye Case." She said.
I then bid the King farewell and left the royal palace. I wanted to see Adam before I left Mourancha. So I went to the Inn where he was staying. As usual, I found him in the dining hall enjoying his ale.
"Done with the king?" He asked.
"Yes," I said.
"Good. There is a new job for you." He said.
"Out with it," I asked.
"Pack of Varqrees," Adam said. "Attacking small villages. Killing and raping innocent people. A hunter went after them. Barely survived the encounter. They need the real deal."
Varqrees are carnivorous creatures. They look just like a human but paler and ancient. They have a very long life span. Most are known to live for at least five hundred years. Some stay away from humans and try to live their own peaceful lives. While others are just like Adam mentioned. Troublemakers. Filthy dogs. With an insatiable hunger and lust.
"Who is paying?" I asked.
"Some villagers. Their daughters were violated and killed. They seek revenge." Adam said.
"When?"
"Two days ago. They came to see me yesterday." Adam said.
"Where?" I asked.
"A small village just east of the city. The Varqrees, however, are headed to Kimball "
"What about my payment?"
"They said they will give you the next harvest. As much as you like." Adam said.
"Very well. Then consider it done." I said.
Adam smiled. I stood up and left the Inn. Outside, Schneider was waiting for me. I mounted him. Kimball was in the south of Mourincha. A few hours Journey. I hoped I could catch them in Kimball. Less work for me. But then again it did not matter. A hunt is a hunt no matter what the situation. Even if it meant, chasing them to hell, I would have done it. I mounted Schneider and we rode for Kimball.