14 The Meal with Him

The Master continued to come every day at the same time for the rest of the first month. He still only stayed for a few minutes. Same expression, never wavering. Atila became used to it, although she never was at ease or gave him the pleasure of seeing her do anything. Whenever she heard him coming, she dropped whatever she had been doing and sat on the floor facing the door. She stayed motionless until he left.

The start of the second month was new. Guards came again to get her, but this time they led her to a new room - the Master Hunter's dining room. Having a separate room for eating was farely rare among gatherings. Only the higher families could afford that. This dining room in particular was about twelve paces. It was apparent that entertainment was not its established purpose, however it was well furnished.

She was brought in at noonday and secured to a chair at one end of the slightly long table. It was set with freshly hunted game and seasonal vegetables. Not lavish, but a hearty meal. She sat wondering what motive was behind all this. Not much later the Master Hunter came and seated himself on the opposite end.

"This is not a trap, he said in a neutral tone." "I know you won't speak to me, but at least you might eat. I do not ask anything in return, not even a good wish."

Atila sat motionless with her eyes spaced out. She did not want to appear weak by any means, but to waste food would be a shame. One was always careful to eat everything and save what was left. Good food was rare and respected. She finally bent her head to eat what was served to her.