The main mass inside the host writhed in a frantic pattern now.
Tendrils punched outward in every direction they could find. Some lashed at the air, some tried to dig into the walls, and some went straight up toward the vents.
Alexei saw their attempt at an escape, moved his hand, and sent frost into the duct surfaces. The sudden cold cracked vent grates. Parasites that tried to force themselves through touched the metal and slowed.
Ice formed along their length, causing them to lose all mobility and droop.
Her creature settled. It cannot escape that way. Finish it.
Sera stepped into the widening pool at the host's feet and reached into the cavity. Her fingers closed around the central knot of cords where they braided together. The mass there pulsed faintly, still trying to coordinate.
It tried to drive barbs into her palm, but they scraped against her skin without sinking in.
She tightened her grip and pulled the parasite out of the man completely.
