Chapter 41 : The Wilds

Erik’s POV

My father led the hunt. His years of experience hunting gave us a leg up. Behind us, Poppy was wrapped up in numerous furs, in a sled so we could drag her behind us. The veins were expanding now that we were in the cold and it killed me to see her tremble through all those layers.

Thankfully, it wasn’t the snowy season, but even springtime was cold in Myrkr. Percy and Alice were pulling her while Magnus, my father, and I took point. Looking for tracks. Signs of a camp. We’d been tracking for hours and I knew this human wasn’t stupid.

She knew we were onto her but didn’t know the territory.

The wilds were known for monsters. It wouldn’t surprise me if she ended up in an ogre’s stew, but that fate was too merciful. I wanted to see the light leave her eyes myself, stuck gut-deep on the end of my broadsword.

But I’d show mercy if she could save Poppy. That’s all I wanted. I’d put all this deep-seated rage behind me for Poppy.