Sixteen-year-old Alec Radclyffe can transform into a snake, grow the wings of a bat, and summon the powers of countless creatures through the practice of martial arts. As a shapeshifter in the city of Condle, he’s ready to fight in the upcoming tournaments. But before he can even think of throwing the first punch at the games, he has to win a one-on-one match against non other than his personal guardian. His uncle won’t agree to Alec’s participation in the tournaments otherwise. Except, as Alec manages to outsmart his uncle in combat, he discovers that his personal mentor won’t let him win that easily.
This short story, originally submitted under the title, The Jaguar’s Deception, was a contest finalist in the 2017 San Francisco Writers Conference Competition. Read it free through my VIP Circle Newsletter. Plus, get access to all my bookish swag and short fiction. Join here.
Melissa Muhlenkamp 