The next few moments felt like an eternity. Toru stood frozen, his eyes darting between the transparent status window floating in the air and the encroaching shadow creatures. Beside him, Nyx, the black cat who now felt far more than just a pet, let out a soft hiss. The Umbra energy around Nyx began to form a faint, dim shield.
"Toru, we need to move fast," Nyx's telepathic voice echoed, calmer now but firm. "This labyrinth reacts to our presence. The stronger our bond, the more energy we can access. But that also means we'll attract more attention."
Toru nodded, beginning to grasp it. His Prime Taming ability wasn't just about subduing; it was about harmonization. He felt the flow of energy connecting him to Nyx, and now, to the Shadow Shard he had just tamed. He could sense its presence—a quiet Umbra echo, ready and waiting for command, though not yet as potent as Nyx.
As the stone walls of the labyrinth shifted, forming new passages, Toru tried to apply what he felt. He focused on the Lumin within him, imagining it as a protective light. Slowly, a faint silver aura began to emanate around him and Nyx.
Ting!
[System Notification]
Skill Acquired: Basic Lumin Shield
Effect: Provides minor protection against elemental attacks.
"Wow," Toru murmured, his eyes wide with amazement. "This is… incredible."
Nyx rubbed its head against Toru's leg, purring softly. "This is just the beginning. You possess a balance of Lumin and Umbra within you, Toru. That's what makes you unique. Use it. Observe your surroundings."
Toru's gaze swept the chamber. He could sense the flow of energy—Lumin originating from small crystals embedded in the ceiling, and Umbra creeping from cracks in the walls. In the distance, he felt the presence of other creatures, larger and more potent than the Shadow Beast he had tamed.
"There's something bigger ahead," Toru said, his voice serious. "I can feel it."
"We will face it together," Nyx replied, its emerald eyes filled with conviction. "But first, we need to prepare you."
They moved deeper. The corridors became more winding, and they found a more spacious chamber. In its center lay an old wooden chest, carved with ancient symbols, pulsing with strong Lumin energy.
Ting!
[System Notification]
Treasure Chest Found.
Requires: [Bond Level with Nyx: E] to open.
Open? Y/N
Toru looked at Nyx, who nodded. "Take it, Toru. It might be important."
With a gentle nudge from Nyx, Toru pressed 'Y'. The chest creaked open, revealing its contents: a dark cloak made of smooth, night-like silk, and a beautiful obsidian mask, intricately carved with symbols he'd seen on the labyrinth walls.
"This is…" Toru picked up the mask, feeling a cool, comforting energy flow as he touched it.
[System Notification]
Item Acquired: Mask of the Silent Wanderer
Effect: Conceals user's aura and identity. Enhances Umbra manipulation.
Requires: Bonding with Nyx to unlock full potential.
Nyx purred. "That mask is part of the 'Legacy of the Tamer'. It will help you hide your identity when you step outside this place. Something you will definitely need, Toru."
As Toru caught his reflection in the mask's polished surface, he saw his eyes glowing—a stronger mix of Lumin and Umbra now. He felt a pull, a call to wear the mask, to conceal himself, but also to become something more.
Suddenly, a guttural roar echoed from another corridor. A large creature, a terrifying blend of wolf and shadow with blazing red eyes, burst into the chamber. It was far more powerful than the Shadow Beasts they had encountered.
"That's a... 'Shadow Stalker'!" Nyx yelped. "Its level is much higher! Toru, prepare yourself!"
Toru felt his heart pound. He clutched the mask tightly in his hand, then looked at Nyx with renewed determination. This wasn't just a trial anymore. This was the beginning of his journey.