Chapter 41: Inside the Dungeon

Words : 1036 Updated : Sep 17th, 2025

Alix stands, pacing around the room. "A dungeon would definitely attract monster seeking strength, weapons, and skills. Monsters would be drawn to that... to the challenge and the rewards." He stops in his tracks, eyes narrowing in thought. "If there are no dungeons here, then I'll have to create one myself. A dungeon in Misorn could turn the city into a beacon for monsters." Alix stops pacing, his eyes narrowing as he recalls his inventory. "Let me check what I have," he mutters under his breath, his hand reaching out. The transparent screen flickers back to life, this time showing his inventory. He taps a few times, scrolling through the various items. "I have a lot of low-tier dungeon blueprints," he says aloud. "I just need to gather the resources to build one." He sees the blueprint for a low-tier dungeon. His eyes scan the required materials. "To build this dungeon, I need 500 gold coins... and I have 800 right now." He raises an eyebrow, considering the amount. "That should work. Though it costs 100 gold coins per day to operate, Gorth's kin can forge around 100 gold coins daily, plus the dungeon entrance fees. So I'll have more than enough." A few minutes later, Alix arrives at Misorn city, standing at the edge of the gates. The once-dilapidated city now shows signs of rebuilding, but there's still a noticeable emptiness in the streets. The city seems to be recovering, but not at the pace he expected. Sorin, standing nearby, bows her head respectfully as he approaches. "Your Majesty," she says with a faint smile. Alix looks around, taking in the state of the city. He then turns to Sorin with a thoughtful expression. "Didn't know you had such a talent for governing a city, Sorin," he says, genuinely impressed. Sorin tilts her head, a bit sheepish. "I did my best, Your Majesty. But it's been difficult to convince the monsters to settle here." Alix sighs, shaking his head slightly. "I see. Only a few monsters decided to stay." Sorin nods. "Yes, Your Majesty. Many of them prefer their own territories, and the idea of living in a city with so many different kinds of monster is... uncomfortable for some." Alix gives her a reassuring smile. "It's alright. This time, I'll make sure those monsters come running to this city." Sorin looks up, her expression curious. "How do you plan to do that, Your Majesty?" Alix gives Sorin a knowing smile, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "You'll know soon enough." He then looks around, his gaze sharp. "Sorin, I want you to make sure no one comes to this area. Not a soul. Do you understand?" Sorin nods immediately. "Of course, Your Majesty. I will make sure no one approaches." With that, Alix turns away and walks toward the designated area. His thoughts are laser-focused as he prepares for the task ahead. As he steps into the open space, he raises his hand, activating the system. The transparent screen flickers to life, and a series of holographic blueprints appear before him. With a quick command, the system begins to construct the dungeon. The ground trembles lightly as the structure takes shape. Within moments, a sturdy building materializes, resembling an ordinary stone structure—nothing too grand, yet undeniably functional. Alix steps inside the newly constructed dungeon building. The interior is simple—plain stone walls, a few wooden tables, and a single receptionist desk positioned neatly in front of the portal. The only thing that stands out is the shimmering dungeon entrance itself, pulsing faintly with magical energy. The monster receptionist, the same metallic-skinned humanoid from before, bows slightly upon seeing him. "Welcome, Your Majesty," it greets, its voice smooth and polite. Alix nods in acknowledgment, his gaze flickering toward the portal. "Make the entrance fee fifty silver coins," he orders. The receptionist tilts its head slightly, processing the command. "Understood, Your Majesty. The entrance fee is now set at fifty silver coins per entry." Alix crosses his arms, glancing around. The place is functional, but it still lacks the atmosphere of a true dungeon hub. That would change with time—once word spreads, monsters and adventurers alike will flock here, drawn by the potential rewards within. "Good," Alix murmurs, then turns back to the receptionist. "Is everything else in place? Will the dungeon function properly for challengers?" The receptionist nods. "Yes, Your Majesty. The dungeon is fully operational. Creatures suitable for its tier have already been assigned within. Would you like to inspect the layout personally?" Alix considers the offer for a moment before nodding. "Let's do that," he says, his curiosity piqued. His gaze flickers to the receptionist. "What's your name?" The metallic-skinned receptionist straightens slightly. "Laith, Your Majesty." Alix nods in acknowledgment. "Alright, Laith." Without another word, he steps forward, his eyes fixed on the shimmering portal. The magic hums softly, its surface rippling like disturbed water. Without hesitation, he steps through. A moment later, Alix finds himself standing in a dimly lit cave. The air is damp, and the faint echo of dripping water fills the silence. Stalagmites and jagged rocks protrude from the ground, giving the place an eerie, almost foreboding atmosphere. Alix narrows his eyes, scanning his surroundings. The dungeon feels oddly familiar yet different from the usual monster-filled lairs. His senses remain sharp as he takes a cautious step forward, expecting an ambush at any moment. Then, he sees them. Humans. Scattered throughout the cave, groups of armored warriors, thieves, and lightly dressed scouts move with purpose, as if preparing for battle. Some are sharpening their swords, others tending to wounds, and a few are even eating around makeshift campfires. They look like adventurers—mercenaries, and rogue fighters—but their presence here feels unnatural. Yet, not a single one acknowledges him. Alix frowns, stepping closer. A swordsman in rusted armor walks past him, eyes fixed ahead as if Alix isn't even there. Another, a thieves muttering under his breath, barely blinks in his direction. "As expected, they don't see me." Alix murmurs, intrigued. He raises a hand, waving it in front of a passing rogue's face. Nothing. No reaction.

Chapter 41: Inside the Dungeon

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