The trek back to the dungeon was uneventful, but Christopher's thoughts were anything but calm. The merging of the Pride Fragment had left a lingering power within him, a sensation of invincibility coupled with an ominous weight.
His gaze shifted to the harvested BlackGold being carried by Nyx and the Shadow Hounds. It was a crucial resource that would elevate the dungeon's defenses and his standing as a Demon Baron. Yet, his mind kept drifting to the fragments of Pride.
---
Back to the Dungeon
The glowing dungeon core greeted them as they returned. The soft hum of energy resonated through the chamber, a constant reminder of the power he wielded and the responsibilities that came with it.
Christopher ordered the Shadow Hounds to deposit the BlackGold near the crafting station. Nyx, as always, awaited further instructions with a slight bow.
"Nyx," he began, his tone thoughtful. "We've strengthened our foundation, but we need information. The Pride Fragment isn't something I can keep hidden forever. There are others who will seek it."
Nyx nodded, her crimson eyes sharp. "You are correct, Master. Fragments of Sin are coveted by many, and those who hold them often become targets. However, there are ways to uncover more without exposing yourself."
"Go on."
"The Guild," she explained. "Even demons have informants and factions within the Adventurers' Guild. They collect and sell intelligence on rare artifacts and phenomena. It's possible they've heard whispers of the fragments' locations."
Christopher considered her words. Though dangerous, the Guild was indeed a treasure trove of information. But he would need a cover to approach it.
---
The Dungeon Shop
Before making any decisions, Christopher turned his attention to the dungeon's new resources.
"Caelum," he called.
The Dungeon Sprite appeared in a flash of light, floating lazily near the core. "Yes, Master?"
"What can we create with the BlackGold?"
Caelum waved its tiny hands, summoning a holographic menu that listed available options.
---
[Dungeon Crafting Menu]
Tier 1 Traps: Reinforced Poison Trap, Shadow Snare
Weapons: BlackGold Dagger, Enhanced Bow
Defensive Structures: Fortified Gate, Barrier Wall
Miscellaneous: Mana Conductor, Resource Amplifier
---
Christopher's eyes scanned the options. "Fortified Gate and Barrier Wall. Start with those. We'll need stronger defenses if we're going to attract adventurers and fend off intruders."
"Understood, Master," Caelum replied, immediately setting the dungeon's resources to work.
---
Whispers from the Guild
Two days passed as the dungeon's defenses were bolstered. The Barrier Wall shimmered with an otherworldly glow, a sign of its strength. The Fortified Gate stood tall, a testament to the dungeon's growing power.
During this time, Nyx ventured to a nearby outpost to gather information.
When she returned, her expression was grim. "Master, there's news you'll want to hear."
Christopher gestured for her to continue.
"The Adventurers' Guild in the nearby city of Kaelwyn has issued several quests related to unusual phenomena. One of them specifically mentions a surge of demonic energy in a cave to the south—likely the one where we found the fragment."
Christopher's brow furrowed. "So they're already aware. How much do they know?"
"Not much," Nyx replied. "But they've sent scouting parties. It's only a matter of time before someone connects the dots."
Christopher's hand tightened into a fist. The fragment had brought him power, but it also brought attention—unwanted attention.
"What else?"
Nyx hesitated. "There's also talk of a demon named Lazarius, a Demon Marquess, searching for the Fragments of Sin. He's been seen in the western territories, leaving destruction in his wake."
---
A Rival Emerges
The name struck a chord. Demon Marquess Lazarius was a powerful and ambitious figure, known for his ruthless pursuit of power. If he was after the fragments, it wouldn't be long before their paths crossed.
"Lazarius," Christopher said slowly. "A Demon Marquess is leagues above me in strength. If he finds me before I'm ready…"
Nyx stepped forward, her voice firm. "Then we will ensure that you're ready, Master. Lazarius may be powerful, but he is reckless. His ambition blinds him, and that will be his downfall."
Christopher nodded, determination burning in his eyes. "Then we'll use the dungeon to grow stronger. No more hiding. Let him come—we'll be ready."
---
Shadows of the Past
As the night fell, Christopher sat alone near the dungeon core. His thoughts wandered to his past life, to the only person who had truly mattered to him—Luna.
The fragment's power had awakened memories he thought he had buried. He could still see her smile, hear her laughter. She was more than a sister to him; she was his anchor, his reason to push forward.
"Where are you now?" he murmured, his voice barely audible.
The thought of her being lost in this world tore at him. If there was even a chance she was here, he would find her.
And if she wasn't… he would find a way to bring her back.