After firmly consolidating my power in the Kingdom of Elara and acquiring the Blood-Dark Demon Lord Armor, my confidence soared. The former kingdom of light was now merely a base for me, a symbol of darkness's dominion.
Lilith, with her astonishing efficiency, swiftly re-established order. The surviving populace was forced into labor for me, mining resources and repairing the remaining parts of the city. Anyone who dared to resist was brutally punished, serving as a deterrent for others. Every few days, Lilith would present reports on the collected resources and the progress of the populace's "domestication."
Meanwhile, Elara and the Queen continued to be my primary energy sources in the Refinement Chamber. My power steadily increased, and I felt my mana growing denser, more ominous. The Pain Energy Absorption from my new armor continuously provided me with auxiliary energy, transforming the slaves' suffering into strength. I could even feel a strange "satisfaction" each time their mana flowed into my body.
TING!
[Side Quest: Gather Resources (5000/5000 units) - Completed! Reward: 100 EXP, 30 Demon Essence.]
[Azazel has leveled up! Level: 8]
[Base stats have increased.]
[New Skill: Dark Release (Active) unlocked!]
A satisfied smile spread across my lips. Dark Release. It sounded like a wide-area attack skill. Perfect for territorial expansion.
With my current Demon Essence (165 total), I decided to focus on bolstering my army and acquiring more "resources" for myself.
"System, open Shop, Subordinates section."
I scrolled through the list. There were stronger demon types than the Demon Warriors.
"Buy Demon Butchers (Level 1) x 2." Each cost 50 Demon Essence. Total: 100.
"Buy Demon Warriors (Level 1) x 3." Total: 45.
[Purchased Demon Butchers (Level 1) x 2, Demon Warriors (Level 1) x 3! Demon Essence remaining: 20.]
[New Subordinates: Demon Butchers (2), Demon Warriors (3)]
Two colossal Demon Butchers, with muscular physiques and massive iron axes, along with three new Demon Warriors, appeared in the throne room. Their arrival added to the terrifying aura of the palace. They knelt, awaiting orders.
"Lilith," I commanded, my voice echoing from beneath my demonic armor. "Train them. And after that, prepare for the next conquest."
Lilith bowed. "Yes, My Master. Where do you wish to strike next?"
I looked at the map Lilith had brought me earlier. The Kingdom of Elara was just a small part of this continent. Around it were many other kingdoms, some weak, some powerful.
"The next kingdom... will be the Trade City of Valoria," I pointed to a spot on the map. "It lies to the North, wealthy and populous. I intend to make it my treasury."
Lilith smiled, her eyes gleaming with greed and cruelty. "An excellent choice, My Master. Valoria is renowned for its wealth and beautiful women. They will make perfect slaves."
"I will personally lead this assault," I said. "Lilith, you will remain here, managing the Kingdom of Elara and continuing to 'refine' Elara and the Queen. Ensure everything runs smoothly."
"Yes, My Master." Lilith bowed, seemingly a little disappointed not to participate in the new conquest.
I spent the next few days preparing for the march. I reviewed the formation, ensuring the demons were optimally trained. I also personally re-examined the mage slaves, forcing them to use dark magic and completely controlling their will. The women chosen as sex slaves were also thoroughly "inspected" by me, ensuring they understood their place.
The night before our departure, I stood in my private chamber. The blood moon shone through the shattered window, highlighting the demonic armor on my body. I felt stronger than ever, a true Demon Lord, having completely shed my old self.
TING!
[New Quest: Conquer the Trade City of Valoria - Dominate Valoria and turn it into a Demon Lord's base. Reward: 700 EXP, 100 Demon Essence, New Skill: 'Dark Slave Market'.]
A cruel smile spread across my lips. Dark Slave Market. That sounded intriguing.
Tomorrow, Valoria would drown in blood and lust.