Blue fluid erupted from the rupture point with arterial force, the pressure behind it suggesting this was more than simple capillary action—this was weaponized biology, a defense mechanism that had waited centuries for prey stupid enough to touch it. The bioluminescent blood—because what else could it be—splashed across Andrew's hand and arm before he could pull back, moving too fast for reflexes to save him. The fluid clung to his flesh like burning oil, adhesive and aggressive, spreading with predatory intent across his skin. It glowed bright enough to hurt looking at directly, bright enough to cast dancing shadows on the opposite wall that seemed to writhe with malicious glee.
Andrew screamed.
