In the world of A Drop of Venom, it’s difficult to get through life without a trusted friend watching your back, especially when you’re battling monsters. There’s only one slayer, but he has a small army of fighters. Most are soldiers who volunteered for service—after all, it’s an honor to protect the kingdom. But there’s one fighter above the rest: skilled, adept, and as hard as stone. He’s loyal only to his village. In fact, his servitude to this elite army is the only thing keeping his village free from the King’s rule . . . or annihilation. Over time, he’s developed a bond with Pratyush, and dare we say . . . is even best friends with him?

Shrouded in mystery, our tall, menacing friend is not to be trifled with. Quick thinking, fast moving, Dev is a man of few words.

So, what better game to play than “Dev Spills the Tea?” Let’s get started, shall we?

Rumor has it that you’re a cannibal.

Dev: Think what you will. I neither confirm nor deny it.

Um, seriously. Are you? Readers are dying to know. Is it a rumor, suspicion, joke?

Dev: Let’s just say . . . don’t get too close if I’m hungry.

Ahem. All right. Moving on. So, you’re best friends with our teenage slayer?

Dev: Sure.

Pratyush mentioned you’re married but didn’t invite him to the wedding. Why is that?

Dev: (Rolls his eyes.) Is he still griping about that? Listen, he cannot handle the traditions of my village.

Poor guy. He was really looking forward to wearing a sherwani and mojri.

Dev: Is he still asking for those sparkly mojri?

Ooh! We love a warrior with a soft side! Do you like sparkles?

Dev: (Scratches the side of his tattooed neck and raises a pierced brow.) Who doesn’t?

Tell us about your wife. What does she do while you’re away?

Dev: Village defense. She rides a rhino and can spear an enemy from a mile away.

We love strong women! What brought you to the King’s army?

Dev: Either that or annihilation. We do not assimilate.

The King sounds . . . imposing. Have you ever met him?

Dev: I’m not allowed to get close enough to the royals. (Taps his sharply filed nails together.)

Oh, ahem. Okay, one last question. What’s the juiciest gossip around?

Dev: (Grins, flashing sharpened teeth.) The dynasty of the kings has come to an end.

Want to learn more about Dev is talking about? See more from him in A Drop of Venom, on sale 1/16!