As the contract solidified, the core's radiant aura emanated from Viru, weaving its way toward the dragon. The dragon, with its skin resembling a blend of gold ore and earthy hues, started experiencing a gradual but noticeable healing effect. The wounds that marred its majestic form began to close at a steady pace, the restorative power of the dungeon core working its magic.
With the contract sealed, a surge of energy coursed through Viru, catapulting his level to new heights. Having already reached level 9 after the intense jungle battle, the addition of the dragon guardian propelled Viru's level to an impressive 15. Albus, always the informant, enlightened Viru about the perks of this newfound level.
Viru, now at level 15, had unlocked a valuable ability – the power to teleport. This function not only allowed Viru to teleport himself but extended the convenience to his subordinates as well. The significance of this ability wasn't lost on Viru. It presented a practical and efficient means for himself and his subordinates to traverse between the dungeon and various locations in Revara. It marked a notable milestone in Viru's progression, enhancing both the strategic capabilities and overall efficiency of his dungeon management. The implications of this upgrade were promising, setting the stage for further advancements and challenges in the evolving tale of Viru and his dungeon.
As Viru grasped the potential of his newly acquired teleportation ability, he promptly summoned his subordinates and even the Forest Walker from the jungle, commanding them to teleport directly into the confines of the dungeon. In a flicker, the images of Viru and his gathered allies blurred momentarily, vanishing from their previous location and seamlessly reappearing inside the boundaries of the dungeon. Only Viru and Cylia, the dragon, materialized in the chamber housing the dungeon core.
Cylia, the dragon, was immediately entrusted with the critical role of safeguarding the dungeon core. The dragon's radiant aura began melding with the surroundings, gradually shaping a terrain that suited her essence and strengths. Albus informed Viru that the completion of this new terrain would take some time, a process that couldn't be rushed.
Though Viru had discerned the dragon's gender from Albus's identification and the distinctively feminine timbre of her voice, he was yet to know her name. Viru took the initiative to introduce himself politely before inquiring about the dragon's name. With a resonating presence, he extended a respectful greeting to the dragon and asked for her name.
In a tone that echoed with celestial elegance, the dragon responded, revealing herself as Cylia, the star-born guardian. Her name echoed like a celestial melody in the chamber, carrying a sense of cosmic grace and might. Viru, acknowledging the significance of the moment, expressed his pleasure in meeting her, emphasizing his respect and admiration for the powerful being before him.
The interaction between Viru and Cylia, the dragon, held a sense of mutual respect and acknowledgment. It marked the genesis of a crucial alliance, a bond that would shape the dynamics of the dungeon, its guardians, and the future adventures that awaited them in the realm of Revara.
Viru exited the chamber housing the core, leaving Cylia to rest and regain her strength completely. Despite his burning curiosity about the dragon's origins and the reason for her severe injuries, he knew those inquiries had to wait. With a sense of priority, he made his way to the first nature domain to inspect the progress of the terrain creation and ecosystem adjustments.
Upon entering the domain, Viru was immediately struck by the significant improvements already underway. The trees, burgeoning from mere saplings, had surged to an impressive height of one meter, indicating rapid growth and promising prospects for the terrain. He released the insects and worms he had collected from the forest, ensuring the ecological balance was maintained.
In compliance with his prior orders, his subordinates had successfully captured various groups of wild animals—horned rabbits, boars, deers, and a variety of other creatures. Among the wildlife, the sight of the grayon cubs, playing around their mother near the Forest Walker, warmed Viru's heart. Placed strategically near the gate leading to the Dungeon core's chamber, the Forest Walker stood sentinel, poised to thwart any approaching threats.
Viru issued a directive to the grayon mother and her cubs, designating them as guardians for the Forest Walker. Immediately, the ancient Forest Walker rooted itself, establishing a sturdy foundation. It emanated an air of wisdom, commanding the trees around it to grow dense and protective. Its influence seemed to radiate throughout the entire nature domain, fostering an atmosphere of ancient authority. Despite the dimness surrounding the area, a gentle ray of sunlight seemed to lovingly caress the top of the Forest Walker, illuminating its canopy amidst the darkness.
As Viru observed the development in the first nature domain, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. The progress made within the domain, the burgeoning ecosystem, and the guardianship established were all integral steps toward fortifying his dungeon's defenses and nurturing its evolution.
The newfound strength of the Forest Walker unfolded as Viru observed its commanding presence within the expanding nature domain. Albus clarified the unique phenomenon, attributing the Walker's enhanced abilities to the newfound control it gained over the surroundings. In their previous encounter, the Walker lacked permission to fully harness the forest's power.
With Cylia, the Star Dragon, now under his guardianship, Viru found himself at the pinnacle of strength within the group. He could naturally tap into the dragon's immense power, elevating him to a level that surpassed the rest, second only to the formidable dragon herself. This newfound dynamic set the stage for a formidable team, with Viru and Cylia ready to face challenges head-on.
As the Forest Walker demonstrated its improved prowess, it became evident that it could now stand on equal footing with Viru. The intricate balance between the dungeon's denizens started to shape, creating an ecosystem where each entity played a crucial role. The dense forest, under the command of the Forest Walker, served as a testament to the synergies within Viru's burgeoning domain.
Viru contemplated the evolving dynamics of his dungeon, a complex web of relationships and powers. The integration of the dragon's strength, combined with the Forest Walker's newfound might, created a formidable force within the first nature domain. The challenge now lies in harmonizing these powers to establish a robust and balanced ecosystem that would contribute to the dungeon's overall strength.
As the forest thrived and the inhabitants found their roles, Viru couldn't help but marvel at the intricate tapestry of his dungeon's evolution. The journey had just begun, and with each passing moment, the dungeon grew stronger, fueled by the diverse strengths of its inhabitants and the harmonious balance between them.