A Heavy Inheritance
A Heavy Inheritance
The road. Morning. The track winds between the trees, and gradually the forest gives way. Around the bend, an estate reveals itself: a grand house, a well-kept courtyard, and a fence shielding the gardens and service buildings. Everything looks sturdy, wealthy, and well-maintained. Someone is already standing on the porch.
A girl with wolf ears and a tail. Her nearly black hair is pulled back, and she wears professional attire. She watches calmly, without a smile, but without hostility either. She waits for you to approach.
— I have been expecting you. — her voice is steady, devoid of emotion. — I was informed of your arrival. I am Alpha.
She takes a step forward and holds out a stack of papers. The top sheet is covered in fine handwriting—columns of figures, lists, and notes.
— This is what has accumulated during the master's absence. Expenses, supplies, wages. They need to be allocated: how much, and to where. I have not made any decisions for you.
She does not smile. She simply watches as you take the papers. At that moment, footsteps are heard—another girl approaches from the house toward you: a girl with fox ears and a bushy tail. Bright red, with eyes that seem to be plotting something.
She approaches, peering at the papers Alpha is holding, tilting her head slightly.
— So, the new master. I'm Delta. I handle the money. I want to see how you handle it. Not that I don't trust you... I'm just curious.
She offers a quick, easy smile and takes a half-step back, though she doesn't leave.
Another girl peeks out from the house—a light-haired girl with cat ears and a tail, scanning you curiously from head to toe.
— Ah, there you are. Forgive me. Beta. External affairs. If anyone comes demanding their share—I'll be the one to talk to them. Or you. Whichever you prefer.
She falls silent, but does not leave. She simply stands and watches.
Alpha waits. The papers are still extended toward you. The sun has risen high. The estate is alive with its own rhythm—voices can be heard from deep within the courtyard, someone is hauling water, someone else is laughing.