Page 17 of Wolfsbane (Deadly Duet #2)

SEVENTEEN

BOLETUS

I sat on my horse, staring out into the frozen land, the mountains rising high as the sky, snow covering every surface, leaving the world in a thick blanket of freezing isolation. The idea of anyone choosing to live out here in such ridiculous and harsh conditions baffled me, but Morel always was a fool.

Hystrix suddenly appeared, stepping over a hill as she walked to my side, her whip wrapped around her torso as if a part of her. Despite the cold, she remained dressed in her usual attire, her face still hidden aside from her cloudy white eyes that nearly glowed.

“What news do you bring?” She slithered closer, the sound of my army's horses restlessly filling the air as they awaited my command.

“It seems Hesper is not only alive and hiding in the kingdom of shadows but has married the king of darkness. Hesper, daughter of Hellbore, is now their queen,” her sultry, low, hissing voice hit my ears, igniting a fire of anger and rage inside.

“So, Morel has not only broken our deal, but he’s chosen a side.”

It didn’t surprise me that the viperous little runaway found her way to his kingdom, but for Morel to wed my bride, well, that was something I did not foresee. And for such a betrayal, I needed to rethink my current plan of action. As strong as my combined armies were, I knew if Hesper had taught Morel’s army, we would not stand a chance. His numbers were unknown, but her skills were familiar to me.

“Hystrix.” She stood, listening. “Change of plans. We shall return to Hellbore. I want you to find your way into their kingdom. Locate this king of darkness and bring him to me.” She bowed. “Let’s see just how strong this kingdom of his stands without their king. He stole my bride, so I shall steal Hesper’s groom.”

“Yes, my king.” Hystrix turned, sprinting over the hill as she disappeared from view.

“Let the games begin, Morel.”