Hunter 4: One Step at a Time

Hunter 4: One Step at a Time

His demeanor shifted, and he appeared both pleased and proud. He grinned at me before saying, “That is the Sabrina I know. But…” he sighed, advancing towards me. “I just can’t tell you everything I know about you. You’re strong and determined, but I don’t want to overwhelm you with information. It should be taken one step at a time, as your parents said.”

My expression softened as I looked at my grandfather, who was staring back at me with worry. With that kind of stare, how am I supposed to resist and assure him that I can take it? I know he solely cares about me, but how can I make him tell me everything?

With a sigh, I looked at him beseechingly and asked, “But could you at least tell me that you aren’t doing anything ‘illegal’?”

It has been on my mind since I woke up, which is why I said those things. I simply cannot image my family going after those ‘supernatural’ creatures and using them for experiments or even killing them. I trust them, yet I still can’t stop thinking about the possibilities!

Grandpa seemed taken aback, but then chuckled a few seconds later, leaving me astonished about his behavior. Once he had calmed down, he remarked, “Our innocent and kind Sabrina,” but I was still left dumbfounded. “I wasn’t anticipating you to be concerned about that,” he added, still chuckling.

With a pout, I said, “Of course I am!” I only replied, but he continued to laugh.

“I see. I see…” I stayed silent while pouting and watched Grandpa calm down. “Alright. All I can say, my dear, to clear the name of Cadwell Hunters in your mind is that we aren’t engaging in any ‘illegal’ activity. I guarantee you of that,” he continued which made me even more intrigued. “I understand your curiosity, but that is all I can tell you. Don’t overthink it; you’ll know when the time comes. We promise not to hurt you; instead, we’ll keep you safe and provide you with our continued support. Therefore, all you need to do is to fully live your life,” with a softening gaze, he continued, “I just hope that you’re not mad at your parents for withholding the truth from you.”

“I have no animosity against them or any of you, Grandpa. If that means keeping me safe, then so be it. I would not waste all of your efforts for my own sake, therefore I promised to venture out in search of the truth. I’m still processing everything, but for now, I’ll choose to believe you and my parents. Just like you all mentioned, I will always take the path that I believe is best for me.”

Grandpa beamed proudly at me and gently tapped my head. “Even if it means forsaking your normal life?” I was somewhat taken aback as I heard his challenging voice. He was able to catch it, though, and grinned even more. “Sabrina, your journey ahead won’t be easy. Particularly for someone like you who only wants a normal, peaceful life. However, never forget that Grandpa has your back no matter what.”

‘Unfortunately, I still don’t have an answer for that.’

Hearing those words from him brought me relief. As a result, I can’t resist hugging him in return. “We’re fortunate to have a grandfather like you…” I couldn’t help but remark, to which he simply laughed.

“I am an incredible grandfather, I know that.”  I just giggle at him when he says that.

‘Indeed, you are a genuinely wonderful grandfather.’

My eyes were questioning him, so I released our embrace and turned back to face him. “Mom requested me to study about the nightwalkers and the realm where they reside, but… is it true that there’s another world aside from Earth?” I asked, my voice full of wonder.

Grandpa grinned, “Earth is not exactly what you believe it is, my dear grandchild. It was much bigger than you imagined. With hidden places you never knew existed, one of which is the realm of nightwalkers. Far off from the realm of mortals. But keep in mind that there are other realms besides the one for nightwalkers. But don’t worry; you’ll learn about them shortly. You must first concentrate on the nightwalkers and the world they live in.

I shall request that Frederick give you the books you need to read as your first step into the world of magic. Thus, prepare yourself since there is yet a great deal to learn about that world. Don’t worry; to further enlighten you, Frederick and I will also teach you about the world of nightwalkers. You must first become acquainted with that realm before going in search of your mother’s old friend.”

What he stated is starting to cause me headaches. Now I see why my mother wants me to learn things carefully. I must admit that after hearing Grandpa, I was astounded and felt compelled to find out more, even though it was also mind-blowing.

“It was incredible,” I said, my voice filled with wonder, and I noticed Grandpa smirking. ”But at the same time, it sounds chaotic.” I can’t help but add,

He chuckled in response to my comment and nodded. “Indeed. Literally. That is why your parents kept you hidden from that world. But now you have no choice but to enter that chaotic world, he complained. He seemed worried about me, which is why I smiled.

I understand him, though, because it would be difficult for someone like me, who has spent her entire life in normal, to adapt to that world. “Well, I guess from now on my motto in life will be 'the best choice is no choice’,” I replied, chuckling, which made Grandpa laugh as well.

After that, I returned to my chamber in the mansion to await the arrival of Frederick, the butler, and Grandfather’s secretary. I appear to be enthusiastic about learning about the nightwalkers while yet being terrified. However, I refuse to give up, no matter how challenging it becomes.

Frederick arrived at my door shortly after, bearing all the books I needed. What caught me off guard, though, was seeing Nanny Mercedes with him with a cart full of my favorite foods. If Frederick served as a butler, Nanny Mercedes served as a head maid.

Good evening, Lady Sabrina. “I had brought all the books you might need, just as Lord Hussien had instructed," Frederick stated as I let him place all the books on the table. Alongside him were other maids who were carrying the books, and Nanny Mercy was pushing the cart in front of me.

“I understand that learning so much in a single day has left you stunned and overwhelmed, but you also need to eat and look after yourself, my lady. Those books can wait.” Nanny Mercy sighed.

Her concern for me is evident, and I can’t help but grin at her. But when I gaze at her, I can’t help but wonder whether she’s a nightwalker too. She, Frederick, and everyone else in the mansion. Knowing what Nanny Mercy had stated previously.

It gives me the chills to think that everyone in Cadwell Estate is a nightwalker and that I am surrounded. However, it has dawned on me that I am also one of them. But, I have yet to accept it, and it appears that everything has not yet sunk in.

“I appreciate you caring about me, Nanny Mercy,” I murmured, hugging her. “Thank you for the meals as well. I nearly forgot that I was hungry.” I remarked in a kind and compassionate tone.

I could hear her sigh again as she caressed my back. “Of course, my lady. Now, eat first. That way, you’ll be able to assimilate all you learn from the books Fred sent you.”

I stood straight up and grinned. “Okay. Thank you very much again.” Nanny Mercy merely nodded as she directed the maids to place the food from the cart on the other table.

Frederick turned to face me as she gave them instructions, saying, “Please ask me anything if you have any questions, my lady. I’ll answer all of your questions for as long as I can.” He said, giving me a little grin as if to reassure me that everything would be alright.

After I thanked him, I was likewise left by myself in my room. I ate the food Nanny Mercy brought me before calling a maid once more to request that my finished food be taken away. I was eager to read every book they brought me since I felt so full now.

I looked at the books in front of me and said, “These are quite a lot, huh.”

With a sigh, I picked up the first book I saw and opened it. This appears to be an old book, yet it remains in fine shape. As I look at the front page, I see the title: ‘The Bloodsuckers, Shapeshifters, and Spellcasters.’

I grabbed another heavy book, as heavy as the first one. Its title, ‘The Realm of Lunaria’, convinced me to start reading this first. To readily grasp everything, I must first learn about their realm before I can even begin to know those mysterious beings.

I only hope I can absorb anything after this.

***