Solo in Dungeon

Chapter 4 - The Commandments

Estaros's laughter ceased abruptly as he took on a more serious demeanor, causing the hunters to brace themselves for their fate. The group's anxiety intensified as they feared they might face a grim end, similar to what had happened to Caleb.

"No, no, I'm not going to kill you all just yet," Estaros said, his voice dripping with mockery. Despite his attempt at derision, the hunters remained visibly shaken, their faces pale and expressionless.

"Ugh, what a dull lot," the demon muttered with disdain.

He then proceeded to outline their grim options. If they could pass a series of trials, there was a chance they could survive; otherwise, they would meet a horrific end.

"I'm in a generous mood today. If you manage to pass this test, I might just allow you to live," Estaros declared.

A flicker of hope sparked among the hunters, even though they struggled to grasp the full implications of his words.

"I-Is that really true?" Jarred ventured, his voice trembling as he sought confirmation.

Estaros's eyes flashed with irritation. "DO YOU WANT TO DIE NOW?"

Jarred fell to his knees, trembling and stammering, "N-no, I'm s-sorry."

The demon's disdain was evident. He saw no value in punishing such a minor annoyance and chose to spare him.

"From now on, none of you are to speak unless I permit it," Estaros warned, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"Now, let's begin," Estaros announced, snapping his fingers with a dramatic flourish.

SNAP

RUMBLE

The ground beneath them shook violently, causing the hunters to stagger. Statues began to rise from the floor, encircling them. Each statue was wielding different weapons, their ominous presence adding to the group's confusion.

Among the statues, two knight figures stood guard by the door, each armed with a long stone sword. The most striking figure was a colossal statue of the demon king, Demon King Lucifiero. This imposing figure towered over the others, its regal presence marked by five horns arranged like a crown.

"Be honored, humans. This is the visage of our king, Demon King Lucifiero," Estaros announced with an air of arrogance.

The sight of the demon king's statue struck the hunters with awe and fear. Their eyes widened, and their faces reflected their deep-seated terror.

"Oh, I nearly forgot," Estaros said, his voice tinged with amusement.

SNAP

He snapped his fingers again, and a stone tablet with ancient runic script materialized before them. The runic language, known only to seasoned hunters, was an enigma to most.

Mike, ever curious, approached the tablet and called out, "Mr. Ben, there's something written here."

Ben examined the tablet closely and confirmed, "This is rune language."

The other hunters murmured among themselves, their voices filled with uncertainty about the runes. Ben began to read aloud.

The Commandments for Serving the King

1. Worship the king
2. Praise the king
3. Prove your devotion to the king

Those who do not obey these commands will perish at the hands of the king.

The team exchanged bewildered glances, their confusion palpable as they tried to understand the commandments.

"What does this even mean?" one hunter asked, voice shaking.