Chapter 03: Lyra's Revelations
How did you survive the purge?" Dorian asked Lyra, his voice low and cautious.
Lyra's gaze drifted past him, nostalgia and pain etched on her face:
"I was sent to protect your mother's sister, my lady Ariana Eldrid, in a distant realm. We escaped Korvus's initial slaughter... but Ariana fell to his agents later. I returned to Tenebrous, hiding in shadows, waiting for your return, Dorian."
The Black System updated:
**LYRA'S LOYALTY VERIFIED (92% TRUSTWORTHY)**
+ Skills: Master healer, strategist, and Eldrida magic expert
Lyra approached Dorian, her eyes locking onto his:
"You possess your father's eyes and mother's divine aura. Our bloodline's magic resonates strongly within you."
She placed a hand on his forehead, and visions exploded into Dorian's mind:
* His parents' love and strength
* Eldrida gods' glorious reign and tragic fall
* Korvus's ruthless ambition and dark magic
Dorian stumbled back, overwhelmed. Lyra caught him:
"We must train your magic and prepare for war against Korvus. Are you ready, Dorian Eldrid?"
The Black System prompted:
**CHOICE DETECTED**
+ Accept Lyra's offer: Train magic and prepare war
+ Refuse Lyra's help: Go solo against Korvus
Dorian's response was immediate."I accept," Dorian said firmly, determination burning within him.
Lyra smiled, relief and hope etched on her face:
"Then let us begin. Our first destination: the Heartoak Glen, where ancient Eldrida magic still resonates. There, you'll connect with your divine heritage and unlock initial powers."
The Black System updated:
**NEW DESTINATION UNLOCKED: HEARTOAK GLEN**
+ Distance: 3 days journey
+ Recommended Preparations:
- Physical conditioning
- Magical theory study
- Combat drills
Lyra handed Dorian a leather-bound tome:
"Eldrida Magic Fundamentals. Study this during our journey. We depart at dawn."
As Dorian opened the book, intricate runes glowed within:
**MAGICAL THEORY ABSORPTION INITIATED**
+ Absorbing Eldrida magic principles...
+ Updating magical database...
Hours passed as Dorian studied intensely. Lyra observed his focus, nodding in approval.
Suddenly, night shadows outside seemed to twist and writhe...
The Black System alerted:
**HOSTILE PRESENCE DETECTED OUTSIDE**
+ Unknown entity lurking just beyond camp perimeter
+ Threat level: UNKNOWN
Dorian drew his sword, moving towards Lyra to whisper...
They mounted horses Lyra had prepared earlier and galloped into the night.
After hours of intense riding, the first light of dawn crept over the horizon...
And with it, a breathtaking sight: Heartoak Glen. Towering trees with trunks as wide as castles, their leaves shimmering with soft, ethereal light. A gentle hum of ancient magic vibrated through the air.
Lyra reined in her horse, gaze locked on Dorian's. "We're here. Your divine awakening begins now."
The Black System flashed:
**HEARTOAK GLEN RESONANCE DETECTED**
+ Magical energy synchronization initiated...
+ Eldrida bloodline powers stirring...
Dorian dismounted his horse, feet sinking into the soft grass as he approached the nearest tree. Lyra joined him, placing a hand on the trunk.
"Focus your mind, Dorian. Connect with the Eldrida magic within these trees and yourself."
As he touched the tree, energy surged through him like liquid fire. Visions exploded into his mind:
* Ancient Eldrida rituals beneath these very trees
* His ancestors wielding magic that shaped reality
* His own dormant powers stirring, eager to unleash
The Black System updated:
**DIVINE MAGIC UNLOCKED (20% CAPACITY)**
+ Abilities:
- Elemental Manipulation (air, water)
- Healing Magic
- Magical Shields
Lyra smiled, eyes shining with pride. "Your bloodline's magic responds strongly to you, Dorian."
Suddenly, the air distorted behind Lyra. A figure materialized –
Korvus's most feared assassin:
Valkor, the Shadowblade.
Valkor's voice cut through the glen's tranquility.