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

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