The Dark Assassin, realizing his attack had failed, turned and lunged at Cassius. Cassius seized the opportunity and struck the Dark Assassin's arm with his sword. The Dark Assassin winced in pain, momentarily halting his advance. Cassius took advantage of this and launched a fierce counterattack, ultimately forcing the Dark Assassin to retreat.
"We need to pick up the pace; more of them will be coming soon," Cassius said.
Alice nodded, and the two continued on their way toward the territory of the Elves. As they drew closer to their destination, Alice felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She was uncertain about what challenges and opportunities awaited her in the Elven lands, and whether she could truly shoulder the mission of saving the Starry Illusion Continent.
Finally, they caught sight of the Elven territory in the distance, shrouded in an air of mystery. Towering trees stood like sentinels guarding this land, their branches shimmering with soft magical light. Alice was awestruck by the beauty before her, feeling a tranquil yet powerful energy enveloping her.
As they stepped into the Elven territory, curious gazes were cast upon them by the Elves. Cassius led Alice before the Elders, who regarded her with solemnity and expectation.
"Starborn, welcome to the land of the Elves. Your arrival brings us hope," one Elder said.
Alice took a deep breath, knowing that her growth and training were about to begin here. She had to master Star Power to protect her family and save the Starry Illusion Continent; she must press forward with determination.
From that day on, Alice embarked on rigorous training within the Elven territory. Each morning, she rose early to study magical knowledge under the guidance of Elven mentors, learning about the mysteries of the stars. Afternoons were dedicated to physical training; she ran and climbed through the complex forest environment to improve her coordination and endurance. At night, she would sit alone beneath the starry sky, attempting to forge a deeper connection with the stars to better harness her Star Power.
During this time, Alice made many Elven friends. Some were kind and enthusiastic, teaching her unique magical techniques; others were mischievous, often dragging her off to explore secret corners of the forest. Alice gradually integrated into this vibrant community filled with magic and life, her smiles becoming more frequent.
However, peaceful days did not last long. Morlock learned that Alice was training in the Elven territory and decided to secretly devise a larger scheme—one capable of destroying both Alice and the Elven clan.
He used dark magic to quietly plant an evil seed within the Elven community. This seed took root in a young Elf's heart, gradually corrupting him with dark power until he became Morlock's Mole Agent.
This Mole Agent began spreading rumors among the Elves that an ancient magic existed which could grant Alice immense Star Power without enduring long and arduous training. Upon hearing this news, Alice felt a flicker of doubt. She looked at her slow progress with Star Power and thought of her family who might still be in danger far away; she wanted to grow stronger more quickly.
Thus, she resolved to seek out this so-called Ancient Magic. The Mole Agent secretly guided her deep into a mysterious cave within Elven territory. Upon entering the cave, Alice was enveloped by a dark and oppressive atmosphere.
Fear crept into her heart, but she pressed on bravely. Suddenly, black magical chains emerged from within the cave, coiling toward her. Alice attempted to escape but found herself ensnared.
"Hahaha, Starborn, you have finally fallen into my trap," Morlock's voice echoed through the cave.
It dawned on Alice that she had been deceived; she struggled desperately to summon her Star Power. Yet it seemed that the dark forces within the cave suppressed her abilities as she watched helplessly as Dark Chains tightened around her.
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