Christopher, or "Chris" to the few who were close to him, stood amidst the aftermath of the battle. The dungeon's core pulsed faintly, replenishing itself after the fierce clash. His expression remained stoic, but his thoughts churned like a storm.
The system's earlier revelation still echoed in his mind. Somewhere, somehow, Luna—the sister he thought he'd lost forever—was tied to this world.
But the present couldn't wait. To uncover the truth and secure his place in this treacherous realm, he had to ascend the ranks of demon nobility.
---
[System Update]
Status Menu Unlocked
---
Christopher opened the new panel, his curiosity piqued.
---
[Status Panel]
Name: Christopher
Race: Lesser Demon
Rank: Demon Baron
Level: 30
Mana Attributes: Shadow, Fire
Abilities:
1. [Administrator's Eye]: Analyze enemies and structures.
2. [Shadow Manipulation]: Control and weaponize shadows.
3. [Flame Burst]: Launch concentrated fire attacks.
Dungeon Level: 2
Fragments of Sin: Pride (1/5)
---
"Demon Baron," Christopher mused, reading the title next to his rank. It was the lowest rung on the noble ladder, but it was a start.
Nyx, the ever-loyal Shadow Demon, approached from the shadows. Her injuries were minor, but her crimson eyes still burned with intensity.
"Master, the dungeon's defenses held, but barely," she reported. "We must bolster our forces if we are to ascend further."
Christopher nodded, closing the status panel. "Agreed. We can't afford to remain vulnerable. The enemies will only grow stronger as we climb the ranks."
---
Understanding the Hierarchy
The Demon Noble Ranks weren't just titles—they were a measure of power, influence, and recognition. Each rank represented a demon's strength and their control over mana, magic, and subordinates.
---
Demon Noble Ranks:
1. Demon Lord
2. Demon Archduke
3. Demon Duke
4. Demon Marquess
5. Demon Earl
6. Demon Viscount
7. Demon Baron
---
As a Demon Baron, Christopher was at the bottom of the hierarchy, but his Administrator's Eye revealed a path forward: expand the dungeon, gather resources, and increase his level and influence.
---
The Dungeon's Growth
"Nyx," Christopher said, "I need you to scout the nearby area for materials. Focus on ores—something we can use to reinforce the dungeon or trade later."
Nyx nodded. "As you command, Master. I'll leave immediately."
Before she vanished, Christopher added, "Be cautious. We can't afford to lose you."
For the first time, a flicker of surprise crossed Nyx's face, but she quickly composed herself. "Understood."
As she dissolved into the shadows, Christopher turned his attention back to the dungeon's interface.
---
[Dungeon Menu]
1. Core Stats
2. Summon???
3. Shop
4. Dungeon Layout
5. Soul Synchronization
---
He selected [Core Stats], eager to understand the heart of his domain.
---
[Core Stats]
Level: 2
Energy Capacity: 1000/1500
Available Resources: 400 DP
Upgrades Unlocked: Reinforced Walls, Basic Traps
---
"Not much to work with," Christopher muttered, running a hand through his hair.
The shop menu offered limited options, but he purchased two Poison Traps and placed them near the dungeon's entrance. It wasn't much, but it was a start.
---
An Unexpected Visitor
As Christopher finalized the placements, a faint ripple disturbed the air. His Administrator's Eye activated instinctively, and a small figure stepped into the dungeon.
It was humanoid but small—no taller than a child. Its skin was a pale blue, and its eyes glowed with an eerie light.
---
[System Alert]
New Entity Detected
Classification: Dungeon Sprite
---
Christopher relaxed slightly. Dungeon Sprites were rare entities known for aiding dungeon masters in exchange for sanctuary.
"Who are you?" Christopher asked, his voice steady but cautious.
The sprite tilted its head, its voice melodic yet otherworldly. "I am Caelum, a wanderer seeking refuge. Your dungeon's core called to me."
Christopher frowned. "And what do you offer in return?"
Caelum smiled faintly. "Guidance, Master of Pride. My knowledge of mana and dungeon crafting is vast. Allow me to stay, and I will ensure your domain flourishes."
Christopher's eyes narrowed. "How do you know about the Pride fragment?"
Caelum's smile widened. "The fragments call to each other, Master. The Pride within you resonates with what remains in this world."
---
The Fragments of Sin
Christopher had suspected the Pride fragment was more than just a power boost, but hearing it confirmed sent a chill down his spine.
The Fragments of Sin were relics of the seven Demon Lords who had ruled Althaea in the distant past, each embodying one of the seven deadly sins:
Pride
Wrath
Greed
Lust
Envy
Sloth
Gluttony
Four of these fragments were still held by Demon Lords who had ruled for over 2000 years. But the Pride fragment was unique—it had been shattered into five parts, and Christopher held only one.
To fully ascend as the Demon Lord of Pride, he needed to find and awaken the remaining fragments.
---
Christopher crossed his arms, his mind racing. "If you know so much, then tell me—where are the other fragments?"
Caelum shook his head. "I cannot say for certain. The fragments choose their bearers, and their locations are ever-changing. But with time, they will reveal themselves to you."
---
The Path Forward
Despite his reservations, Christopher decided to allow Caelum to stay. The sprite's knowledge and skills could prove invaluable in the battles to come.
"Fine," he said. "You can stay. But if you betray me…"
Caelum bowed deeply. "You have my loyalty, Master of Pride."
---
As the dungeon settled into a brief calm, Christopher returned to the core, his thoughts once again drifting to Luna. The glimpse of her soul fragment had reignited a fire within him.
"I'll find you, Luna," he murmured, his voice filled with determination. "No matter what it takes."