Apparently, the Devourer didn't appreciate the question.
Its remaining eye fixed on me while the flesh surrounding its heart collapsed beneath the roots. With the tether gone, I couldn't feel its hunger or rage crawling through my body anymore, but I didn't need the connection to understand the expression on its face.
Apparently, being rejected twice was difficult for its self-esteem.
The Devourer's mouth opened.
"She—"
The damaged throat failed before it could finish. Black fluid poured between the broken rings of teeth as the roots pulled another core from its heart, taking the last of the clear light with it.
The Devourer's body sagged.
Then the black core cracked.
Poison exploded through everything.
The roots around the heart turned dark as the power forced its way into the wood. Bark split open, releasing thick smoke while the Devourer used the last of its strength to shove the poisoned roots away from its body.
Several snapped.
The rest loosened.
