The dome was filled with the scent of blood and smoke.
The two remaining bears had collapsed on their limbs, panting and drained.
But before Aksai could make his move, something unexpected happened.
The Verdant Elder didn't go for the bears.
Instead, he turned around slowly—facing the giant tree at the far edge of the dome. His bloodshot eyes narrowed as if staring right through the bark.
Aksai froze inside the hollow of the tree.
He's looking at me? But I haven't even stepped out yet...
Before he could finish the thought, the Verdant Elder let out a deep, guttural groan. His massive body shifted as Spirit essence surged from within. Then came the first spell.
The ground rumbled, and thick, bark-covered vines shot up like spears.
They twisted and coiled, covered in sharp green thorns, and moved with deadly speed. In a flash, they crashed into the trunk of the tree Aksai was hiding inside.
Boom!
