- Never ever say such thing to anyone … - he gave me a wry smile. – Or it may end badly, I assure you…

- Honestly, I thought you were going to kill me!

- Why should I? – he shrugged. – I don’t care what you think about me and I know that I’m not a killer. But what if I were?

I remained silent. We both knew the answer, anyway. Why say it?

- That’s right… - the Huntsman whispered. – I would have killed  you… Remember, sometimes holding your tongue may be more useful than playing lionhearted chevalier…

- I see you  aren’t a noble type, - I looked at him with pure disdain.

- I’m a sensible  type, - he folded his arms. – Unlike you, I’ve lived long enough to realize that clear mind is far more important than your so-called “code of honor”…

- Unlike me?! I would like you to know, sir, that I am 231 years old and-…

- And I am six times older than you, young lady, thus, I have right to say so.

I stared at him. Is he really  that old? Or was that a joke?

- What do you call yourself? – the Huntsman decided to change subject.

- Omen…

- Pretty name, I guess, it suits you… - he offered me a handshake. – As you already know, I am a Huntsman…

- I can’t say it’s a pleasure to meet you, though, - I reluctantly shook his hand.

- I guess, pleasure is really  all mine, - the Huntsman replied.

He was driving me up the wall with such attitude. As if nothing bothers him, as if everything is fine… Showing no emotions, but slight smile… Speaking in such calm, nonchalant tone… Ugh!

- You’d better leave! – Huntsman’s voice broke through my thoughts.

- Why?

- Because as much as I enjoy chatting with you, you are interfering with my hunt…

- No, I mean, why should I listen to you?

- As I am being nice? – he chuckled. – Now seriously, let’s split the territory. I am watching over the forest. You’ll watch over the village. Eventually, we’ll find the killer…

As much as I didn’t want to agree, I had to. He was right. I needed to find that monster first. Then I will say whatever I think to Huntsman’s self-righteous face.

- Alright! Deal!

I turned around and strode towards the village without saying “Goodbye!” to my new acquaintance.