Evolved Rank Devourer Tree

Spores.

Leo had read about plants that use airborne toxins to weaken their prey, but experiencing it firsthand was another matter entirely—especially from an Evolved Rank plant.

His movements became sluggish, his thoughts slower. His grip on Nightshade faltered for just a second.

And that second nearly cost him.

A massive root, thicker than his own torso, surged toward him. In his dazed state, he barely managed to twist his body, but it still clipped his side, sending him flying through the air.

Leo crashed into the ground hard, the impact forcing the breath from his lungs. He rolled, gritting his teeth as pain radiated from his ribs.

He forced himself up, shaking his head, trying to clear the fogginess from his mind. His vision was still blurry, but he couldn't afford to stay down. He had to move.