The Cruel Lord

he cool autumn breeze filled her lungs as she moved with the grace of a seasoned hunter. Hunger gnawed at her belly, and her arms ached f

d been marked by hardship. Famine had become their unwanted companion. The once plentiful fish had vanished from their waters, and the wildlife seemed to be

forced her duty to provide for her family, a tranquil hamlet nestled among ancient trees, far remo

ilently, she stalked through the underbrush, alert to the slightest sound. Then, amidst the verdant qui

nter. But hesitation was a luxury she couldn't afford; another hungry soul might claim the prize if she faltered. She envisioned

Disappointment weighed heavily on her, but determination spurred her on. With resolve, she pur

it glade. Taking a deep breath, Mae steadied her aim and releas

rvival. With gratitude, she lifted the doe onto her shoulders, ready to return to Ferngrove

ys had to scar her hand to provide for them wh

ve of solace wash over her. The familiar sight of its weathered thatched roof an

templation as she gazed out at the horizon. Her golden brown hair, reminiscent of their fa

f home greeted her - the earthy warmth of the hearth mingled with the subtle sweetness of drying herbs hanging f

a delicate white corset adorned with flowers. Edina was the epitome of grace, a stark contrast to Mae's own rugged appearance as a hunte

well today?" Edina

s a tangible reminder of her success. "Yes, Edina. I managed to secu

carcass. "Just dinner? You've provided for us for the entire week," she excl

cottage, Mae inqui

egotiate with some merchants from distant lands at the marke

s noble endeavors to save the village with the help of those

ways fails and unwavering commitment with the merchants. But we need someone to watch over

he chief of a struggling village. "Indeed, let's hope his efforts yield positi

on shifted to lighter topics - village gossip, Edina's latest embroidery proje

e, "any updates on your secret admirer? Or shall I

ully swatted at Mae. "Oh, hush! It's

ter. "Sure, sure. Well, if you ever need advice o

ts, care to share anything about your rendezvous with Adrian? The girls at th

led nervously. "It's just c

ship that involves visits to inns a

d open, and their father, Chief Ingred en

, "we need to talk. Something

d a worried glance with Edina. Whatever news their father brought,

of water, her steps echoing against the floorboards. Returning quickl

y, her concern evident in her voi

ightening around their hands. "My daughters," he began, his

th unshed tears. "Is it the merchants,

nly. "No, my dear. It's

hanged a worried glance with Edina. "Wh

them with dread. "Darkness has befallen our village, and with it, a threat m