A Curse So Dark and Lonely: Chapter 44

There’s a moment during the change when I’m aware of who and where I am.

It’s a moment when I’m aware of what I am.

One moment I am falling into darkness, the wind a wild rush in my ears, death a welcome certainty at the bottom.

The next moment I am flying, powerful wings beating against the air current, catching my weight before I hit the ground. I swoop upward.

A terrible screech pours from my throat. I fly upward, soaring high.

My keen ears pick up the sound of men shouting in sudden alarm as I am spotted.

Run, I think.

Then my eyes find the figures standing atop the castle. My claws extend. I feel each muscle and tendon. I fight the urge to attack and kill.

Run, I plea. Run.

And then I think of nothing but death.