“Certainly. It’s nearly time for our hidden clan’s yearly autumn hunting, and I’ve brought you all here because I want you to participate.”
The hidden clan always upheld its traditions, including seasonal rituals like the annual prayer ceremony and hunting events in spring and autumn.
As most of the men in the hidden clan had a privileged upbringing in martial arts, they were trained and became skilled in archery from a young age. As time passed and society evolved, hunting activities now allowed the use of both bows and rifles.
Following Eleanor’s words, Dominik carried on, “The hunting ceremony spans five days, and the victor will be rewarded generously.”
“Why does a simple hunting event need to go on for five days?” Hendrey voiced his skepticism.
“The hunting grounds are located between Mount Manos and Mount Gazette. Given the vast space between these mountains, this challenge demands speed, wilderness survival, and self-defense skills. Except for the opening day, there are four days. On the event day, the target will be revealed in the morning. The winner is whoever reaches the finish line with the target first.” Dominik concisely explained, adding, “Should someone locate the target and return to camp on the first day, the game will conclude then.”
Once he concluded, everyone exchanged glances and murmured among themselves. Veronica glanced at Matthew beside her and whispered, “From what I know, the hidden clan’s hunting events used to wrap up in two or three days. This current hunt seems more complex than it appears.”
Her thoughts mirrored those of everyone in attendance. Tiffany suddenly grew anxious and blurted out, “Only skilled individuals can participate in the hunting, right? As a delicate woman, I’m not joining the fun.”
Given the circumstances, where life and death. were on the line, her participation would only put her life at risk.
“Why are you afraid? You have Hendrey protect you,” Eleanor remarked with a smile. “I’ve already enrolled everyone here for the event, including him. Wouldn’t you be in greater danger if he isn’t there to protect you?”
She dismantled Tiffany’s notion of avoiding. participation with just a few words. Faced with implied threats and warnings, Tiffany appeared to have no alternative but to comply.
“Yes, Princess Eleanor’s point is valid.” Antheena nodded in accord. Though she addressed Tiffany, her gaze subtly conveyed a message to Veronica, a glint of iciness shimmering in her deep blue eyes.
Coincidentally, Antheena locked eyes with Veronica, their eyes meeting briefly before they both quickly averted their gazes. In that instant, Veronica could already sense the killing intent in Antheena’s gaze.
“I haven’t been feeling well lately, so I’d rather not participate.” Veronica declined directly instead of discussing it further with Eleanor.
Despite their transparent schemes, Veronica still needed a valid reason to decline. Whether she could refuse was one matter, and whether she wanted to do so was another. Even so, she had underestimated the despicableness of the Ledger Clan.
“Hahaha…”
Dominik burst into laughter. “It’s just a game for everyone to have some fun together. Besides, hasn’t it been years since Madam Hayley last made a public appearance? Tomorrow, my mother will announce the news of inviting her and her biological daughter to a banquet on the day of the hunting ceremony. Of course, my mother has already coordinated this with her.”
He suddenly inquired, “Miss Murphy, aren’t you aware of this?”
Caught off guard by the unexpected question, Veronica paused momentarily. She glanced at Matthew instinctively before smiling at Dominik. “She was planning to inform me today, but I couldn’t resist Princess Eleanor’s invitation.”
The woman she referred to was none other than Hayley Elrod.
