Lyra examined Dorian's wounds, her expression grim.
"Your leg is badly injured, and Valkor's shadow magic has poisoned your blood."
Dorian winced in pain, his mind racing with concern.
The Black System silently updated within his mind:
**PHYSICAL DAMAGE ASSESSMENT**
+ Leg injury: severe
+ Shadow magic toxin detected in bloodstream – 20% affected
+ Recommended treatment: Rare herb – Starpetal, or magical antidote
Lyra rummaged through her pouch, producing a small vial of glowing liquid.
"This is a rare potion that might counteract the shadow magic. Drink it, Dorian."
Dorian downed the liquid, feeling slight relief as his pain subsided slightly.
Lyra helped him stand, testing his weight on the injured leg.
"It's still unstable, but the potion should slow the poison's spread. We need to find Starpetal to fully cure you."
Dorian nodded, gritting his teeth against lingering pain.
The Black System continued its silent assessment:
**MISSION OBJECTIVES UPDATED**
+ Acquire Starpetal herb
+ Evade Valkor and Korvus's forces
+ Regain strength for impending battle
Lyra led him deeper into the tunnel, the air growing cooler and damper.
"We'll head to the ancient Eldrida apothecary ruins. Starpetal might still grow there, and we can also gather information about Korvus's plans."
Suddenly, faint noises echoed through the tunnel – footsteps, whispering voices.
Lyra's eyes locked onto Dorian's, alarm rising.
"We're not alone down here.
Dorian's eyes narrowed, instincts heightened.
The Black System instantly responded:
**THREAT DETECTION ACTIVATED**
+ Multiple hostile entities detected (6+)
+ Enemy types: Mixed (humans, dark creatures)
+ Recommended strategies and abilities:
- Activating "Shadowstep" technique to gain temporary stealth
- Using "Battle Fury" combat enhancement to increase strength and speed
- Deploying "Echo Shield" defensive mechanism to absorb initial attacks
Dorian focused his mind, and the System activated "Shadowstep". He vanished into temporary stealth.
Lyra looked around confused, then whispered, "Dorian, where..."
He reappeared behind her, lips barely moving: "I'm here. Enemies ahead."
Lyra nodded, drawing her dagger as the tunnel entrance to their left burst open –
A mix of dark creatures and hooded figures poured in, weapons drawn.
The Black System updated: