Jasmine's POV
What did she just say?
My children... gone?
The words hit me like a physical blow. My legs nearly gave out beneath me, but somehow I remained standing. The air felt too thick to breathe, and a high-pitched ringing filled my ears.
Deep inside, Judy let out a savage growl while Atlas released a venomous hiss. Something fundamental broke apart within me.
My spine curved backward as an agonized scream erupted from my throat.
My bones began to shift and crack. Dark energy poured from my skin like liquid shadow. Coarse black fur sprouted across my arms and shoulders. My fingernails extended into razor-sharp talons, and two small horns pushed through my scalp. My canine teeth grew into burning fangs, and my eyes blazed crimson.
Sylvia never saw the attack coming.
I sprang forward, seized her throat with both hands, and hoisted her into the air. Her legs thrashed desperately as her nails scraped against my wrists, drawing blood.
