In the Depths of the Sub-Dimension
1. Return to the Sub-Dimension
The swirling black portal opened with a silent burst. Erd and Zalgaroth emerged into the mystical darkness of the sub-dimension. The dense air vibrated with energy, marked by the presence of the new demonic Grand Duke. Zalgaroth's golden gaze swept over his surroundings, taking in the unfamiliar space he now called home.
As they approached, the infernal guards posted at the entrance instantly fell to their knees. Their allegiance to Erd was absolute, and they knew how to recognise a superior power. Zalgaroth, though stoic, perceived the strange harmony that reigned here. This was neither a simple demon stronghold nor a chaotic lair, but a fortress built to a precise order, governed by the hand of a single being.
Erd walked towards the centre of the sanctuary. There, beneath the immense dark vault, the Council of the Chosen awaited him.
2. Dune's reaction
Dune, floating slightly above the ground, watched the scene with cold intensity. Her gaze lingered on Zalgaroth, gauging the presence of this being newly enslaved to Erd. An imperceptible tension emanated from her, not out of fear, but a hint of annoyance.
- So you've seen fit to widen your circle of allies... she murmured, more to herself than to anyone else.
Zalgaroth did not react to this veiled declaration. He was a warrior, a strategist, and he understood that his role had to be proven by deeds, not words.
Dune took a moment to calm the slight jealousy rising within her. Finally, she shrugged, a mysterious smile playing on her lips.
- It doesn't matter. I've got some information for you. The guild has asked us to explore a recently discovered dungeon.
Erd crossed his arms thoughtfully.
- A dungeon? Hm... I don't suppose it's just a cave full of goblins?
- Far from it," she replied. We're talking about the remains of an ancient lost empire, a source of energy beyond our comprehension.
Erd nodded. But he had other priorities.
3. Separation of the Ways
- I won't be able to go with you this time," Erd announced.
Dune raised an eyebrow, but expressed no surprise.
- Why not?
- There's been some suspicious movement on the borders of the kingdom. I've got a hunch that other forces are up to something. I need to know for sure.
Dune stared at him for a moment before sighing.
- Fine, do what you want. But be careful.
She pivoted and opened a portal to the guild. Before crossing it, she gave him one last look.
- Don't get lost in your ambitions, Erd.
Then she disappeared.
4. Instructions to Zalgaroth
Zalgaroth approached Erd.
- What should I do in your absence?
- You'll keep an eye on the sub-dimension. I don't want anyone entering here without my authorisation.
Zalgaroth nodded.
- I'm going to summon some major demons to strengthen our defences.
- Good move. But remember: the balance here is fragile. We're not just some infernal lair.
Zalgaroth didn't answer immediately. Then, after a moment:
- I understand.
---
5. Dune leaves for the Guild
Dune reappeared in the guild hall. The bustle was palpable. Adventurers were preparing for the expedition.
She crossed her arms and watched the crowd. Despite her skills, she couldn't deny a slight lack. Erd wasn't there.
- Tch. Why does that annoy me so much?
She shook her head and prepared for the mission.
6. Building the House of Erd
Meanwhile, in the heart of the sub-dimension, Torvald, Lyssia and Grokh were working on a monumental task: building a dwelling worthy of Erd.
Torvald oversaw the building's metal structure, using rare alloys to guarantee unrivalled solidity.
Lyssia, for her part, used her shadow magic to reinforce the foundations and give the building a sinister, imposing atmosphere.
Grokh, with his brute strength, moved the heavy materials effortlessly.
- It's going well," said Torvald, wiping his brow.
Lyssia gave the whole thing a satisfied look.
- Yes, but there's something missing...
She snapped her fingers, and suddenly dark runes appeared on the walls, making the structure even more intimidating.
- Perfect," she smiled.
7. Erd leaves to explore the surroundings
Erd left the sub-dimension, moving silently into the reality of the outside world.
The winds carried the smell of dampness and earth, in stark contrast to the mystical atmosphere of his sanctuary.
Each step took him further away from his domain, but one sensation persisted: he was being watched.
---
8. Zalgaroth and the Major Demons
Back in the sub-dimension, Zalgaroth assembled a summoning circle.
Black flames shot up from the ground and massive figures emerged from the darkness. Demons of immeasurable power, each bearing the scars of past battles.
- This is your new mission," declared Zalgaroth. You will guard this territory and not let any intruders near it.
The demons bowed.
But deep inside, Zalgaroth wondered. He, an Arch-Demon, was now in the service of a mortal being... and yet it seemed right.
9. Conclusion: The Paths Separate
Erd continued his walk in the shadow of the mountains.
Suddenly, a presence.
He stopped dead in his tracks.
In the distance, a hooded figure was watching him.
Erd smiled.
- Who are you?
There was no answer. Just a muffled laugh, carried on the wind.
The chapter ended with this riddle, heralding the arrival of a new threat in the shadow of his growing empire.