The Hunt (The Twisted Kingdoms, #1)

by Frost Kay

The Merfolk let vanity take root deep in their hearts, the Dragons became greedy from the skies, the Giants grew bloodthirsty, the Humans covetous, the Shapeshifters prideful, and the Elves allowed apathy to squeeze compassion from their hearts.

“There’s a reason why women bear the children. The all-knowing understood that we couldn’t handle such pain or such glory. We’re wicked, vain creatures as a whole. Could you imagine how men would act if they actually had the power to create life?”

If there was one thing she hated, it was being backed into a corner or having her space invaded; both led to her coming out swinging.

“Which part of the woods?” “The green part,” she retorted sarcastically.

“Death is inevitable, but honor is easily lost,” she whispered, her fingers curling into fists to keep them from trembling. It would be so easy for him to tear out her throat. He froze and then huffed, the sound one part amused, the other part irritated. “Just because you know the words of my people, it doesn’t mean a damn thing.”

“There are those pretty eyes,” he purred, his grin turning wolfish. “I hate when I’m ignored.”

“If you want the Jester so badly,” he whispered in her ear. “Strike true and my heart is yours, city girl.”