After dispatching the gilded spiketail, the group swiftly divided the spoils before hastening into the third layer. In this realm, Thorian assumed a supportive role, letting Tristan and Nox lead the charge. It wasn't until they confronted the guardian, an armored spiketail, that Thorian began to unleash his offensive spells.

"That was certainly more challenging than the previous layer," Tristan remarked, securing his newly acquired armor. "However, the rewards more than make up for the effort. This chest-plate is remarkably sturdy."

"My new sword managed to pierce through its armor," Nox said with a chuckle. "We would've been in big trouble if it hadn't."

"You both have performed admirably. Nearly clearing the third layer with minimal assistance is no small achievement," Thorian praised, nodding. "But the next layer will be my battle. The guardian there is beyond what you're prepared to face at this moment."

"Are we advancing even further?" Tristan inquired, his tone laced with surprise. "I'm curious about the guardian awaiting us. Surely not another spiketail variant?"

"That would be far too mundane," Thorian replied, shaking his head. "We're facing a corrupted treant."

"I'm eager to see it," Tristan said, his smile widening.

With that, the group made a swift exit from the dungeon and ventured into the fourth layer. They breezed through the initial stages, overcoming the armored spiketail, before making their way into the cave that led to the corrupted treant's den. As Thorian glimpsed the light at the tunnel's end, he raised a hand, signaling for his companions to halt.

"Beyond this point, the air is laced with poison," Thorian cautioned. "Enter if you must, but hold your breath. And venture no further than necessary."

With a nod of understanding from both Nox and Tristan, Thorian charged into the den of the corrupted treant. Confronted by its menacing form, a smile crept across Thorian's face. Let's see if I can fell it with a single blow.

Harboring a strategy, Thorian summoned two of his Elemental Embodiment spells through his dual casting technique.

Greater Gale Slash. Fire Stream.

He unleashed a vertical wind slash and, without hesitation, melded it with the inferno of his Fire Stream, giving birth to a fiery whirlwind. This fusion spell, a Flaming Gale Slash, surged forward with dazzling brilliance, incinerating and shredding the myriad roots ensnaring the lair.

The treant let out a ferocious roar and erected a wooden barrier in defense, but it proved futile against Thorian's onslaught. The Flaming Gale Slash effortlessly cleaved through the dense network of roots comprising the barrier, then bore down upon the treant's vulnerable form.

Boom!

A colossal explosion ensued, obliterating the treant's red core and causing the entirety of its root-bound body to wither instantly.

"Congratulations, adventurers," the ethereal voice of a lady rang out. "You have defeated the Guardian of the Fourth Layer, the corrupted treant. Your display of strength, bravery, and exemplary teamwork has earned you the treasures of this realm."

Level up!

The sight of the level-up notification brought a smile to Thorian's face. Once you taste the magic of the abyss, it is certainly hard to be content with the experience points dungeons provide. Yet, considering this is merely a low-tier dungeon designed for small parties, such outcomes are to be expected.

Exhaling deeply, Thorian turned to find Tristan and Nox approaching him, their faces a mix of awe and disbelief.

"Just what was that, Thorian? I've never witnessed magic of such magnitude before!" Nox exclaimed, his eyes scanning the destruction wrought by Thorian's combined spell with awe.

"To imagine you possess such formidable strength..." Tristan murmured, a hint of admiration lacing his voice. "You're far more powerful than I ever realized."

"This? This is merely the tip of the iceberg," Thorian responded with a chuckle, his tone light yet brimming with confidence. Then, shifting his focus, he decided it was time to assess the advancement of his last two skills.

Water Prison Description This advanced skill conjures a sphere of water around a targeted enemy, trapping them inside. The water prison restricts movement and breathing, causing continuous water damage over time. The skill requires concentration to maintain. Proficiency 100%

Earth Spikes Description This potent ability allows the mage to summon sharp, jagged spikes of rock from the ground at a targeted area. The spikes impale enemies, causing significant earth damage and potentially immobilizing them momentarily. The spikes retract into the ground shortly after emerging. Proficiency 100%

Finally, reaching the peak proficiency of these two skills took an eternity.

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With a contented smile, Thorian turned his gaze back to Nox and Tristan. "I believe we've had our fill of dungeon explorations for today. We have numerous tasks ahead of us that require our attention." His expression then turned serious as he directed his attention toward Nox. "Additionally, I have a specific assignment for you, should you choose to accept it."

"Of course, just let me know what needs to be done," Nox replied with a smile. "Yesterday was rather uneventful. I'm eager for any activity that is more fun than just wandering aimlessly around the village."

Hearing Nox's response, Thorian sighed before sharing his concerns. "I've grown increasingly suspicious of the activities within the Strongheart manor."

"The Stronghearts?" Tristan interjected, confusion evident in his voice. "What are you implying? My closest friend resides there."

"If that's the case, then your friend is likely oblivious to his family's nefarious undertakings," Thorian stated, his voice tinged with a chilling seriousness. "The fact that Nalia's forces are more committed to guarding that manor than their own stronghold should raise alarm."

Tristan's face paled, and he bit his lower lip, casting his gaze downward. "Oswald, my friend, must be unaware of this. Please, ensure no harm comes to him."

"I have no intention of causing him harm," Thorian assured, before shifting his focus back to Nox. "Actually, I want you to make contact with him. Having someone on the inside could significantly aid our efforts. He's the one with red hair, whom I kicked during that unfortunate display."

"I remember him," Nox acknowledged with a nod. "But what exactly should I tell him?"

Thorian paused momentarily to organize his thoughts before responding. "Inform him that Tristan is safe and that his family is implicated with Nalia. Urge him to scrutinize his surroundings for anything out of the ordinary."

As Thorian outlined his strategy, Tristan appeared lost in thought, his expression laden with concern. Eventually, he looked up at Thorian and inquired, "Is there a chance you're considering an assault on the Strongheart estate?"

"That possibility cannot be discounted," Thorian acknowledged with a nod. "Should our investigation within reveal a threat of significant magnitude, it would indeed be prudent to neutralize it. I prefer the burden of having the blood of a few servants on my hands over the potential annihilation of Locksley."

Tristan's internal struggle was evident as he bit his lip, eventually releasing a heavy sigh. Turning to Nox, he said, "I need you to convey a message from me to Oswald. Remind him of the day we spent at Jasmine’s restaurant, and tell him that it's imperative we safeguard the peace we've forged."

Nox glanced briefly at Thorian, who gave an approving nod. With a smile, he assured, "I can do that."

With the immediate matters addressed, Thorian deemed it time to wrap up their discussion. "Time is of the essence; I'm orchestrating an offensive against Nalia this afternoon. We must expedite our preparations."

Having divided the dungeon's treasures among themselves, the trio set off toward the village. It was then that an idea sparked in Thorian's mind.

If Nox were to be paired with a direwolf, their telepathic bond could prove immensely beneficial. But, are there any direwolves still unpartnered?

To seek this information, Thorian initiated telepathic communication with the sovereign of the direwolves. "Harald, I find myself in need of your wisdom. Are there any direwolves yet unpaired?"

"Yes, indeed," Harald replied, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "My son has yet to choose a partner. He had set his sights on Forlune and Zogarth, but alas, they had already established contracts with others. Now, he's holding out for someone he deems worthy."

At this news, Thorian couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, that simplifies matters considerably. I have the perfect candidate for him: Nox, whom I consider my most trusted ally."

Harald's tone shifted to one of surprise. "But hasn't Nox been in a state of unconsciousness for the past week?" he inquired, before letting out a grumble of concession. "Never mind that, I will persuade my son. If Nox has earned your trust to such an extent, then his potential must indeed be remarkable."

"Your assistance is greatly appreciated, Harald," Thorian responded, a wave of relief washing over him. "You've alleviated a significant burden for me."