It's True Form

Thadius's grip on Esme's neck loosened, and she crumpled to the floor once more, gasping for air. Dazed and shakened, she crawled backwards, her eyes fixed on Thadius as if he were some apparition from a nightmare.

It was so unexpected, but a flash of motion had saved her life. However, it was a sudden, vicious stab that struck Thadius in the throat, and he clutched his throat from the attack.

Following the weapon's path in stunned belief, Esme's gaze fell on what should have been her sword, except it wasn't a sword.

A whip had taken its place!

When it clattered into the pool of blood belonging to Jason, the petals had already begun to darken within seconds, soaking in the blood beneath it, and the once gentle bloom morphed ominously.