Chris and Nyx traveled under the cover of darkness, their path winding through dense forests and craggy cliffs toward the neutral territory of Kaelwyn. The city was a known meeting point for demons of all ranks, its sprawling streets and shadowy alleys a haven for deals, alliances, and betrayals.
The tension between the Pride Fragment's pulse and Chris's steady resolve made the journey almost meditative. Nyx's sharp eyes scouted ahead, while Chris contemplated the upcoming meeting.
"Lazarius is cunning," Nyx said, breaking the silence. "He won't openly attack, but he'll use the meeting to assess your strength."
Chris nodded. "Let him. By the time this is over, Lazarius and the others will know exactly who they're dealing with."
---
Arrival in Kaelwyn
The city loomed ahead, its black stone walls glowing faintly with embedded mana crystals. Guards patrolled the perimeter, their dark armor gleaming under the moonlight.
Chris and Nyx approached the gates cautiously. A demon with curled horns and sharp eyes blocked their path, scanning them with a scrutinizing gaze.
"Name and rank?" the guard demanded.
"Chris, Demon Baron," he replied calmly.
The guard sneered. "Barons rarely attend these meetings. What's your business here?"
Chris's eyes gleamed with a flicker of Pride. "You'll find out soon enough."
The guard hesitated, sensing the weight behind Chris's words. Without another word, he stepped aside, allowing them entry.
---
The Assembly
The central hall of Kaelwyn was a grand, circular chamber lined with towering columns. The air was thick with mana, the presence of multiple demons creating an oppressive atmosphere.
Chris scanned the room, noting the ranks of those present: Demon Viscounts, Demon Earls, and a few Demon Marquesses. At the center stood Lazarius, his crimson eyes glowing with predatory intent.
Salazar leaned casually against a column, his smirk widening as he spotted Chris.
"Well, well," Salazar drawled. "The Prideful Baron graces us with his presence."
Chris ignored him, his focus on Lazarius. "Let's get this over with," he said, his voice cutting through the murmurs.
---
Lazarius's Gambit
Lazarius stepped forward, his aura commanding silence. "Welcome, demons of Althaea. We gather today not as rivals but as comrades, united by a common threat."
He paused, letting his words sink in. "Fragments of Sin have resurfaced, and with them, the danger of imbalance. It is our duty to ensure these fragments remain in the hands of those capable of wielding their power responsibly."
Chris's lips curled into a faint smirk. "And I suppose you've decided who's 'capable,' Lazarius?"
The room fell silent as every eye turned to him.
Lazarius's expression darkened. "Power must be tempered with wisdom, Baron. Something you have yet to prove."
Chris stepped forward, his presence radiating confidence. "Wisdom isn't measured by rank, Lazarius. Nor is power defined by title alone."
---
The Challenge
Lazarius's gaze sharpened. "Bold words for a Baron. Perhaps you'd like to demonstrate this so-called power?"
A ripple of anticipation spread through the room. Demons shifted in their seats, eager for a confrontation.
Chris met Lazarius's gaze without flinching. "If you're so eager to test me, I won't deny you the opportunity."
Salazar laughed, clapping his hands. "Oh, this is going to be fun."
Lazarius smiled coldly. "Very well. A duel, then. Prove your worth, Baron, and perhaps I'll reconsider my doubts."
---
Preparing for the Duel
Nyx stepped close to Chris as the arena was prepared, her voice low and urgent. "Master, Lazarius is stronger than he appears. Don't underestimate him."
Chris nodded, his expression calm. "I'm not worried. The Pride Fragment gives me an edge he doesn't expect."
Nyx hesitated before stepping back, her faith in Chris outweighing her concern.
---
The Arena
The duel arena was a circular platform surrounded by dark runes that glowed faintly, preventing interference from the onlookers. Lazarius stepped onto the platform first, his aura flaring with raw power.
Chris followed, his stance relaxed but focused.
"Last chance to back out," Lazarius said, his voice dripping with mockery.
Chris smirked. "Let's see if you're worth my time."
The rune barrier activated, sealing them in. The duel had begun.
---
Clash of Power
Lazarius attacked first, his movements a blur as dark tendrils of mana shot toward Chris.
Chris dodged effortlessly, his eyes glowing with the Pride Fragment's energy. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned Abyssal Chains, the dark energy binding Lazarius's attack mid-air.
Lazarius growled, breaking free with sheer force. "Impressive… for a Baron."
Chris responded with Mana Surge, amplifying his next attack. A blast of dark energy shot toward Lazarius, forcing him to leap back.
The two demons exchanged blows, their power shaking the arena. The onlookers watched in stunned silence, many realizing Chris was no ordinary Baron.
---
The Turning Point
As the battle raged on, Lazarius unleashed a powerful spell, the air crackling with energy. "Let's see you handle this!" he roared, sending a wave of dark flames toward Chris.
Chris stood his ground, the Pride Fragment flaring within him. "You'll have to do better than that."
With a surge of power, he countered with Shadow Step, closing the distance in an instant. His blade, enhanced with BlackGold, struck Lazarius with a force that sent him sprawling.
The room erupted in shocked murmurs.
---
A New Reputation
Lazarius staggered to his feet, his expression a mix of anger and grudging respect. "You've made your point, Chris. For now."
Chris lowered his weapon, his gaze steady. "Remember this, Lazarius. I'm not someone you can dismiss."
As the rune barrier deactivated, the onlookers erupted into applause and whispers. Chris had made his mark.
Nyx approached him, her expression a mix of pride and relief. "You've done it, Master."
Chris nodded, his thoughts already turning to the challenges ahead.