The weight of the fragment's power pressed on Chris as he prepared for the challenges ahead. His dungeon had grown stronger, but the mention of Lazarius and the Guild's interest in demonic phenomena meant that danger was approaching faster than anticipated.
---
Fortifying the Core
Chris stood before the dungeon core, its faint, pulsating light reflecting his steady resolve. Around him, the Barrier Wall and Fortified Gate shimmered with BlackGold's unmistakable luster.
"Nyx," Chris called.
The shadowy figure of his loyal subordinate emerged from the darkness. "Yes, Master?"
"Gather our current resources and prepare for another expansion. The defenses are solid, but they won't hold forever against someone like Lazarius—or an army of adventurers."
Nyx bowed her head. "As you command. The BlackGold reserves are sufficient for more traps or weaponry. How shall I prioritize?"
Chris considered the question, pulling up the Dungeon Menu in his mind.
---
[Current Resources]
BlackGold: 300 Units
Mana Crystals: 500 Units
WhiteSilver: 150 Units
[Crafting Options Available]
Shadow Spikes (Trap)
Mana Warding Array (Defense)
Weaponry Enhancements: BlackGold Forged Blade
Summon Shadow Guardians (Unit)
---
"Begin with the Mana Warding Array and summon two Shadow Guardians," Chris instructed. "We'll need a mix of defenses and manpower."
"As you wish," Nyx said, her form dissipating into the shadows to begin her task.
---
A Visitor Arrives
As the dungeon settled into a hum of activity, the air grew heavy, signaling the arrival of an unfamiliar presence. Chris straightened, his hand instinctively moving to his weapon.
The Barrier Wall shimmered faintly before a figure emerged from the shadows of the forest outside.
It was a tall demon with crimson eyes and a smirk that oozed arrogance. He wore armor adorned with intricate runes, and his dark horns curved back like a crown.
Chris stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "Who are you, and why have you come here?"
The demon's smile widened as he stepped closer, unbothered by the defensive aura of the dungeon. "My, my. You're quite bold for a Demon Baron."
Chris didn't flinch. "And you're quite arrogant for someone trespassing on another's domain."
The demon chuckled. "I am Salazar, a Demon Earl, and I come bearing a warning—or perhaps an opportunity, depending on your perspective."
Chris didn't lower his guard. "Speak quickly, Salazar. My patience is limited."
---
The Offer
Salazar's smirk never wavered. "Word travels fast in the demon hierarchy, young one. It seems you've acquired something… interesting. A fragment of Pride, perhaps?"
Chris's eyes narrowed, but he remained silent.
Salazar continued, his tone almost mocking. "Don't bother denying it. The aura around you is unmistakable. Fragments of Sin are not easily hidden. And where fragments appear, hunters follow."
"What do you want?" Chris asked, his voice steady.
"To offer you a choice," Salazar replied. "Swear loyalty to me, and I'll ensure your survival. You'll have my protection, and together, we can rise through the ranks. Or…"
Chris raised an eyebrow. "Or?"
Salazar's smile twisted into something darker. "Or you can face Lazarius and the Guild alone. I assure you, neither will show mercy."
---
The Response
Chris's lips curled into a faint smile. "Let me make this clear, Salazar. I don't need your protection. If Lazarius or the Guild come for me, they'll regret it."
Salazar's eyes gleamed with amusement. "Confidence is admirable, but arrogance can be fatal."
Chris stepped forward, his aura flaring. "If you think I'm just another Demon Baron, you're welcome to test that theory."
For a moment, silence hung between them. Then Salazar laughed, a deep, resonant sound that echoed through the forest.
"Bold and sharp-tongued. I like that," he said. "Very well, Chris. I'll leave you to your pride—for now. But remember this: the world of demons is cruel, and alliances are often the only path to survival."
With that, Salazar turned and disappeared into the shadows.
---
The Weight of a Decision
Nyx reappeared as soon as Salazar was gone, her expression tense. "Master, are you sure it was wise to antagonize him?"
Chris shrugged. "He's an opportunist, not a threat. Salazar won't make a move unless he's certain he can win. For now, he'll wait and watch."
Nyx nodded but didn't seem entirely convinced. "Even so, it's clear the fragments have drawn attention. We should assume Lazarius already knows about you."
"Then we'll be ready," Chris said simply. "I won't let anyone take what's mine."
As he spoke, his gaze shifted to the dungeon core. The fragment of Pride pulsed faintly within him, a reminder of the power—and danger—that now defined his path.