Ethan's fingers danced across the holographic interface, allocating his 100 Experience Points. He prioritized Agility, aiming to enhance his speed and reflexes.
*Attributes:*
- Strength: 10
- Agility: 15 (+3)
- Intelligence: 8
- Endurance: 9
Next, he invested in Skills, choosing to upgrade Basic Combat and Survival Techniques.
*Skills:*
- Basic Combat (Level 2)
- Survival Techniques (Level 2)
- Dungeon Navigation (Basic)
The interface flashed, confirming the changes. Ethan felt a surge of energy, as if his body was adapting to the new enhancements.
Lila and Jax watched with a mix of fascination and concern. "Ethan, what's happening to you?" Lila asked.
Ethan smiled, feeling the system's power coursing through him. "I'm upgrading myself. This system is incredible."
Jax's eyes narrowed. "But what about us? Are we in danger?"
Ethan's expression turned reassuring. "No, I'm still the same person. This system just gives me an edge."
With his newfound abilities, Ethan felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. He glanced at the quests.
*Quests:*
- Explore the Dungeon (Current Progress: 0%)
- Defeat the Shadow Creatures (0/5)
"Let's focus on exploring the dungeon," Ethan said, his voice filled with determination. "We need to understand its layout and potential dangers."
Lila nodded, her eyes scanning the surroundings. "Agreed. But stay alert. We don't know what we'll face."
The trio ventured deeper into the dungeon, their footsteps echoing off the walls. As they explored, Ethan noticed subtle changes in his perception, his senses heightened by the system's enhancements.
They stumbled upon a hidden chamber, filled with ancient artifacts and mysterious symbols. Ethan's eyes widened as he examined the relics.
*Discovery:*
- Ancient Scroll (contains cryptic message)
- Mysterious Crystal (unknown properties)
The scroll's message read:
"Beware the Shadow King's return.
Seek the Oracle's guidance."
Ethan's mind whirled with questions. What did the message mean? Who was the Shadow King?
Suddenly, a faint growling noise echoed through the chamber. The air grew colder, and the shadows seemed to twist and writhe.
"What's that?" Lila whispered, her voice trembling.
Ethan's eyes locked onto the darkness. "I think we're about to find out."
The growling grew louder, and the shadows coalesced into menacing forms. Ethan's system alerted him to the presence of enemies.
*Enemies Detected:*
- Shadow Creatures (3)
Ethan's heart pounded as he readied himself for battle. The system's power coursed through him, and he felt a sense of confidence.
"Let's take them down," Ethan said, his voice firm.
The battle was about to begin.