Dungeon Law Abi
Outside the dungeon;
Humans are fair game.
They kill each other all the time, aswell as monsters and dungeons. They kill pretty much everything, so what difference does it make if we claim that XP for ourselves? None. Therefore, humans are fair game.
There are, however, rules to follow:
You are not allowed to enter towns, cities, or outposts, just to kill people. If they're minding their own business, they're probably not that bad. If they attack you, uncover your identity, or ascertain the Dungeon's location, you are free to retaliate how you see fit.
You are not to attempt a kill that can not be brought back to the dungeon by the members of the current team.
You are not to attack any groups who have more members in their party than yours. If anyone manages to escape, it could lead to our location being discovered.
Inside my dungeon;
Monsters are not to harm any humans until they have passed the Shed of Salvation. The Rogues stationed at features before the Acoltyes have jobs to perform.
Once they have passed the priests after being warned, then humans are fair game and death is really their only option. In fact, it's encouraged as everyone needs the level ups.
Anywhere you may find yourself, ever;
If the monster, human, flower or whatever is in front of you looks remotely cute or pleasant to the eye, make sure you bring it back to the dungeon!
If you can't transport it with your current party, make the Dungeon Core aware when you return and request assistance.
The most important rule;
Never, under any circumstances, bring back a Goblin for absorption or you will find yourself going with it.
There will be more to follow as and when the dungeon expands. Until then do your best to follow the instructions listed above.
And make extra care not to forget the most important rule.
Signed
Abi the almost Merciful X
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Dropper and Light return on time like Me said they would. It seems like they really do have some type of internal clock. The familiar sight of the duo makes me happy, but at the same time the Troll they're dragging together does not.
Why have they brought me another ugly, oversized monster?
A notification regarding Trolls and a feature unlocking or something makes itself known, but I barely look at it before willing it away. What is it with these two? Wasn't the Defiler strong enough? Did they really need to up their game after that level 19?
That mad, I even begin scolding the hardworking Rogues. "What the hell is that? Is there going to be a line of entrails and blood leading all the way to my dungeon?" My critique on their work makes both Rogue look at the floor.
"Er," Light begins before I think of another question. "And how long have you been dragging it? Did anyone see you?"
"No and it is raining outside..." Dropper offers before I cut her off too.
"Good, I don't know what it is with you two, but it's driving me mad. First, it was those high-class Goblins. Then you brought a human who clearly outleveled you. Now you've got a Troll! There's no feasible way you killed this one easily and I'm not accepting a sob story this time. So, how the hell are you two finding these things!?"
As much as I appreciate the boost the monster provides, I can't help but question how high they set their standards. They're obviously capable, even at level 10, but what dangers are they forcing themselves into and does each trip really have to be better than the last?
If so what's next, a Giant?
I can't help but feel annoyed and I'm not even sure why. Maybe the feelings I'm bottling up are spilling out or something but I just can't keep myself calm.
This time they both try to speak, but I get there first. Wanting to look anywhere but at me, their eyes drop low due to the negative feelings passed through my will as a green mist rises from the floor and covers my entire Dungeon.
I'm making sure everyone stops to listen because I don't want to do this twice.
Supreme Dictator mode.
My voice and will relay Dungeon rules to everyone present. They may have been made up on the spot, but I hope everyone will follow them to the best of their abilities.
Let's be honest though, I didn't even know what I wanted my dungeon to be until recently. Or where I was going with it and have been following my own half-assed strategy.
But.
Right now.
In this very moment.
I have decided to establishing law.
My own law.
The law of Dungeon Core Abi and all monsters created or housed by me better do their damndest not to break them. Any monster found breaking my law deliberately will be dismantled. It doesn't matter how cute they are, there will be no second chances.
Well... Except for Colin maybe.
Me, can I dismantle monsters?
Yes, but having more monsters is generally better for defence. I must say it's about time you laid down some ground rules. I was beginning to think we would just keep doing random things forever.
It's only been two days, hasn't it?
It feels like an eternity, one that I cannot escape from.
Why are you being so dramatic, Me? I'm trying to impose my will here.
Nevermind me then.
Hehe.
I love it when he says that, but I need to focus now. I'll have a chat with him next time I get some me time.
I'm pretty sure I'm due some soon.
Finishing off my law I establish that if people are willing to be amicable towards us, then we will repay the same kindness. Anyone being a bit of a dick about it can just be eaten.
I allow Dum and Dee to tag out of the dungeon before bringing my attention to the notifications that have waited patiently for me to finish.
Monsters have reached Max Level:
Rogue: Light Level 20
Rogue: Dropper Level 20
First Time Absorption bonus:
290DP 290XP
A new monster has been unlocked:
Dungeon Troll: 100DP
Dungeon Core Abi has reached Level 12:
DP has been increased by 40
New features have been unlocked:
Well: 10DP
The Pit: 40DP
All rooms are now customisable with water for no extra DP cost
Shit!
Now I feel terrible. I'm not even happy about the increase to my DP. Well, I am, but the Rogues still-sulking in front of me performed spectacularly and didn't deserve my frustration.
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I vented on them the annoyance I have towards The System and it wasn't fair. Not when they've reached level 20 in record pace. They were only level 1 a few days ago and now look at them. Dragging back trolls and shit like they're nothing.
I mean, it was dangerous how they brought the Troll back as a lot of things could have gone wrong. Fortunately, they didn't. Or haven't so far.
How good are they!
Before I start spending the points they've given me, I need to dish out some praise to the shiny Rogues.
Me?
They are ready to be upgraded. When a monster reaches Max Level you can upgrade them for the cost of the next tier.
Shut the front door.
What?
Why didn't you tell me that earlier? That's crucial information for the Core to know, don't you think? What else are you keeping from me, Me?
I don't keep anything from you. I'm your helper, or assistant if you will. I will tell you anything that is within my knowledge and if you recall, I did say that you can upgrade monsters with points before.
Yeah, I know. I was just teasing you as well, don't get so upset.
I was not upset.
Yeah, ok.
I wasn't, Abi.
Alright.
Abi!
Hehe.
I love you really, Me. I do.
Back to the Rogues at hand.
"Dropper, Light," upon hearing their names, both Rogues snap out of their stupor and stand to attention. "I'm sorry for stressing at you. You did a good job, well done."
That said, I hit confirm on the screen beside me and the Rogues upgrade into Vagabonds. Their isn't much of a change to Light's appearance, other than his hood being down and a second dagger sitting across from the first.
Dropper, on the other hand, looks a lot different. Her armour has changed to that of the Vagabonds and she even has a bow slung across her back. I'm not even going to try and work out her the upgrades work. That's a problem for a Dungeon Core that cares about the inner workings of things.
Fools.
I'm only just realising this now, but the Rogues always have their hoods up and faces hidden. The only time I've seen them all unmasked was when I surprised everyone at Talia's. I was quite shocked that Light's hair was same colour as the sky on a sunny day.
Anyway, it's not bad deal upgrading Rogues. Not for me at least. There are two more beautiful faces hanging round the dungeon now for me to look at. I don't know if I can get romantic feelings anymore, but if I was still human would definitely try my luck with Light. Hell, after a few Jack's I'd probably try my luck with Dropper too.
I'm going to have to rename Dropper at some point. She only ended up like that because I was in a strop over the whole Goblin thing. Poor girl. The name definitely doesn't match that face. Her eyes are blue and she has blonde hair that reaches down to her waist.
Light seems to be confused about something as they both take in their changes. He doesn't seem pleased and seconds later an overcoat appears, form fitting itself to him as though it was meant to come with the upgrade.
I really want to... But I'm still not going to ask.
Stupid, good looking Dungeon.
Without it though, there would be no Light or Dropper. No Barry dropping his loads in me every minute of every day. There would be no talk of the food served by Ali at Talia's Tavern and no wolves running freely around on my third floor. There certainly wouldn't be a gorgeous Alpha or a cute-yet-dozy Slime. No Acolytes, Con-Men or any other attractiveness in sight.
Worst of all there wouldn't be an adorable Mimic in my Core Room, drooling all over the place.
Before a wailing session flairs up, I remind myself that I'm surrounded by all these guys and that we are basically family now. Even though it hasn't been that long the thought of them not being here saddens me and only increases my fondness for them.
Dropper bows after giving herself a good checking out, "Thank you, Master Abi."
Oh, I didn't like that. I may strut around and impose my will, but I don't want them to think of me their slave owner or anything.
Veris calls me Boss and I can just about handle that.
"You're welcome. You both deserved more praise than I could possibly offer. Now that your Vagabonds, you should be able to evolve again." I said that without even asking Me so I hope it's right. I can't see why it'd be wrong.
"Yes, Master. Once we reach the required level we can evolve again." Light responds, full of pride. He seems especially pleased with his new coat. Checking the inside of it every few seconds, he's acting like it keeps changing. He's also sporting a mischievous smile, but as long as he follows the rules I laid out then I'm happy that he's happy.
"Would you like me to change your name, Dropper? I know that you were named when I was a bit angry and I apologise for that. If you want, you can change it to whatever you like?" She thinks it over and gives me an answer.
"I have grown fond of the name you chose for me, Master. I will consider others, but am unlikely to do so. I wil let you know at a later time."
it but after seeing how all the others relish their names, I do not have such feelings towards mine as of yet but it may still be too soon to say. May I have some more time to choose?" She explains before asking if she can hold off on the decision for a while.
"Sure. You and Light have got 16 hours until you're due to go back out. You should get a warm meal at Talia's and enjoy a drink. Use the rooms in the Tavern to rest up if you want too, you deserve it. You've earned this time to yourselves. If you need anything just give me a shout, Me will hear you."
Leaving them to their own devices, I put my focus into spending the points my two superstars brought home.
Stats.
Dungeon Core Abi Level 12:
164/190 XP until next level
3 Floors
20 Rooms
31 Tunnels
92 Monsters
1 Contract Monster
64 Traps
272/280 DP Available
Who's a big Lobe Hound?
I am!
Woof!
My Status get better every time I look at it. I'm still behind myself if we're going off my human level, but I'm making leaps and bounds as a Dungeon Core. Not as fast as Light and Dropper though. Those two are travelling at light speed with their ridiculous kills.
Crap, I forgot to ask them about that Dungeon Troll. After they rest, I need to find out how and where they took it down. I'm curious to find out if they stumbled upon another Dungeon?
I can do that later since they're not going anywhere. No teams are due back for another four hours either so may aswell have a good browse through my purchases whilst Barry drops some more rocks.
I wonder how his new cave is going? That's just one more thing to check on my oversized to-do list and it isn't a priority at the moment.
Me, can I place more than one building in a room?
Yes. The room just needs to big enough to support both features at once. The features themselves must not be restricted, however. The Swindlers Den states that no other Rogue can be set to that room. That means no other feature requiring the staffing of Dungeon personnel can be placed there.
That's good enough for me.
I'll purchase the Well for Shack City since it's only 10DP and upgrade it straight away. There are more mouths to water now than a tier-one water feature could provide. I could customise the room with a stream, but it wouldn't look right. It works fine for Trixie's forest because of its size and surroundings, but it wouldn't be the same here. People need something more civilised.
Well has become Deep Well:
The well stores twice the amount water than before and refills at the start of each day
Reward:
2 XP
I spent 30DP and earned 3 XP in total. 1XP for placing it and 2 more for the upgrade. It isn't much, but I'm hoping the Rogues appreciate access to easy water. I was hoping for more than double capacity, but it is what it is.
Thanks, System.
Moving to the third floor, I'm going to make my Dungeon bigger. Adding more to it so that I can keep distancing my Core from the surface and unlocking perks on the way.
Arriving by the staircase in the middle of Trixie's forest, I place tunnels in cardinal directions on all four of the forest's walls. On the other end of three of them, I add double-sized forest rooms which still only cost 20DP. On the last tunnel, a normal room finishes my design.
How much more do I need to do here, Me?
One more tunnel and a Boss will fill the requirements.
I try to hide my last tunnel behind a large tree in the northern forest room. At the end, I add a Firepit Trap and some Poisonous Gas. A Large Dark Cluster is stationed just above it.
It's silly to think that if someone manages to get past all my monsters and reach this area that a single trap is going stop them. Laughing at my stupidity, I add another tunnel behind the traps and place a Weak Wooden Torch at the very end.
If they're looking at the light in the distance my reaps have a better chance of succeeding.
Still laughing at silly my idea was, I place the Boss Room with the forest effect to the side of torch. Making sure it isn't visible from a distance.
Oh no. Who should I choose for this important position? Who could I possibly trust enough for such an important task that's already lazing around this very floor as I speak?
Hehe.
Trixie is picked for the role, she was a Mini-Boss before after all. Although, it's not like she has any combat experience yet. Unless eating Peaches counts?
The same could also be said for a few of my monsters. Especially the more monstrous of the monsters. I'll need to address that at some point. I don't really want to send them out of the dungeon to fight though. Doing that will almost guarantee someone will turn up knocking.
Nothing spectacular happened as I was lost in thought. There was a slight change to what normally happens as The System labelled Trixie a Floor Boss instead of a Boss Monster. I'm guessing that means she can Boss any rooms she wants on this floor. That's cool, but I'd of liked another free feature at least.
Why are you being shady, System?
Nevermind.
Getting over myself, I place the entrance to the next floor in the last room and decide to call it a day. There's less than 50DP in the bank and it's not enough to do anything substantial.
The Fourth Floor has been created:
5 XP Awarded
A new monster has been unlocked:
Darkite: 1DP
New features have been unlocked:
Fertile Soil: 2 DP (per square foot)
Passive Skill Regeneration has reached Level 5:
DP has increased to a rate of 2.5 per hour
As soon as I'm finished reading, the familiar rush of power that I've started associated with Light and Dropper's return floods my Core. Only this time, it's the two Vagabonds who are back early and certainly not empty-handed. Under each arm a total of four humans are deposited in my floor to be absorbed. They're not your regular villagers either. There's three Archers and a Mage.
I understand that Vagabonds start with higher base stats than the Rogues, but this is just ridiculous. They were still level 1 when they left.
First Time Absorption Bonus:
300DP 300XP
Multiple Absorption Bonus:
162DP
New Loot unlocked:
Miscellaneous Undergarments: 2DP
Leather Gloves: 2DP
Leather Boots: 4DP
Well Crafted Steel Dagger: 16DP
Well Crafted Short Bow: 20DP
Robes Imbued with Light Mana: 40DP
Leather Armour: 40DP
Exquisite Staff of Healing: 160DP
Multiple Human Absorption Bonus:
309DP 309XP
Aelion Woe
Level 17 Cleric 8500XP
Lowell Kyo
Level 17 Archer 8100XP
Sasha Candler
Level 16 Archer 7200XP
Hiro The Hidden
Level 16 Archer/Rogue 7100XP
Dungeon Core Abi has reached Level 13:
DP has been increased by 40
New features have been unlocked:
Stone Wall: 10DP
Stone Door: 4DP
Crappy Kitchen: 40DP
Error:
Already in possession of Feature Stone Door...
Problem...
Querying...
Solution...
A new feature has been unlocked:
Heavy Stone Door: 8DP
Dungeon Core Abi has reached Level 14:
DP has been increased by 40
New features have been unlocked:
Roof for Rent: 40DP
Forgotten Farm: 40DP
Dungeon Core Abi has reached Level 15:
DP has been increased by 40
New Monsters have been unlocked:
Lumin: 1DP
Thief: 10DP
Archer: 10DP
New features have been unlocked:
The Syndicate: 80DP
Rogues can now be summoned with different weapons at a reduced cost
Dungeon Insignia can now be customised and applied to features and monsters
A second Exit/Entrance is now available to be placed for a variable amount of DP
Passive Skill Regeneration has reached Level 6:
DP has increased to a rate of 3.0 per hour
A new Active Skill has been unlocked:
Dungeon Mist Level 1
Well...