The days following Salazar's visit were tense. Chris knew the demon's words weren't idle threats but calculated moves in a larger game. His refusal would undoubtedly ripple through the demon hierarchy, but he welcomed the challenge.
He stood in the dungeon's core chamber, the Pride Fragment pulsing faintly in his chest. It was a constant reminder of his newfound power—and the target it painted on his back.
---
Status Review
Before moving forward, Chris decided to assess his growth. With a thought, he summoned his Status Menu:
---
[Status Menu]
Name: Chris
Title: Dungeon Master, Bearer of Pride (1/5)
Race: Demon Baron
Rank: Demon Noble (Baron)
Mana Affinity: Shadow, Dark
Unique Abilities:
Fragment of Pride (1/5): Grants heightened resistance to mind manipulation and a temporary boost to stats when facing overwhelming odds.
Dungeon Mastery: Allows the creation, modification, and control of dungeon features.
Eyes of Insight: View detailed stats and abilities of others without detection.
Strength: 520
Agility: 480
Intelligence: 600
Mana: 850
Skills:
Shadow Step (Intermediate): Move through shadows undetected.
Abyssal Chains (Novice): Bind enemies using chains of dark energy.
Mana Surge (Intermediate): Amplify magical output for a short duration.
Current Rank Progression:
Baron → Viscount: 65%
---
Chris closed the menu, satisfied with his progress. The Pride Fragment provided a significant edge, but it also served as a reminder of his incomplete power.
---
Strategic Expansion
"Caelum," Chris called.
The Dungeon Sprite materialized in a swirl of light, its mischievous grin firmly in place. "Master, what can I do for you today?"
"We need to expand again," Chris said. "If Salazar or Lazarius make a move, this dungeon must be more than just a fortress—it needs to be a deathtrap."
Caelum nodded, summoning a list of options.
---
[Expansion Options Available]
Shadow Labyrinth: Confuse and disorient intruders with a maze of shifting corridors.
Mana Absorption Fields: Drain mana from enemies within the dungeon's perimeter.
Summon Lesser Demons: Populate the dungeon with additional minions to defend against invaders.
---
Chris scanned the options carefully. Each one offered strategic advantages, but resources were limited.
"Prioritize the Shadow Labyrinth," he decided. "Once it's complete, add a Mana Absorption Field to the inner defenses."
"Excellent choice, Master!" Caelum said, already setting the dungeon's mechanisms to work.
---
Unexpected News
Later that evening, Nyx returned from another reconnaissance mission. Her expression was grim as she approached Chris.
"Master, we have a problem," she said, kneeling before him.
Chris raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"Lazarius has issued a summons to all nearby demons ranked Viscount and below. He's calling for a meeting in Kaelwyn to discuss the fragments."
Chris's expression darkened. "And what's his angle?"
Nyx hesitated before answering. "He's framing it as an opportunity for unity, but it's obvious he's using it to gather information—and weed out potential threats."
Chris clenched his fists. "So he's hunting for the fragments under the guise of diplomacy. Typical."
Nyx nodded. "We also learned that Salazar will be attending. It's likely he'll try to expose you, Master."
---
A Dangerous Decision
Chris paced the chamber, his mind racing. Attending the meeting would be a risk, but it might also provide valuable intelligence—and an opportunity to confront his enemies directly.
"Nyx," he said after a moment. "What's the protocol for these summonses?"
"Attendance is technically voluntary," she replied. "But refusing without a good reason can draw suspicion."
Chris smirked. "Then we'll give them a reason to talk."
Nyx frowned. "You're going to attend?"
"Yes," Chris said firmly. "But not as prey. If Lazarius wants to play politics, I'll show him the power of Pride."
---
Preparations for Kaelwyn
The next morning, Chris began preparing for the journey to Kaelwyn. He chose a set of dark armor crafted from BlackGold, its surface engraved with subtle runes that enhanced his mana. The Pride Fragment's energy radiated from him, giving his presence an air of authority.
Nyx accompanied him, her form shifting to a more humanoid appearance for the occasion. "I'll stay close, Master," she said. "But be cautious. Lazarius isn't just a brute—he's cunning."
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Chris replied.
As they left the dungeon, Chris couldn't shake the feeling that this meeting would be a turning point. The world of demons was cruel, and to survive, he would need to embrace the power of Pride fully.