The mutant woman's aura exploded outward.
Fey stumbled. Her knees buckled. Zoe's beast form flickered, her golden eyes widening as her transformation threatened to collapse. Dori dropped her pistol, her hands flying to her head as if trying to block out a scream only she could hear.
Even Darwin's empty white eyes narrowed. His crossed arms loosened. He took a half-step back.
"Interesting," Darwin murmured.
Julian stood his ground. His body trembled. His broken blade shook in his grip. But he didn't fall.
The mutant woman's red eyes fixed on him.
"I won't play games," she said, her voice low and cold. "I told you. I intend to kill you."
She lunged.
Her clawed hand aimed for Julian's heart.
Then something blacker than shadow intercepted her.
