The rise of the God of Death
*Chapter 11: Ranking Up*
The next day, Daimon walked with Lucy through the early morning streets of the northern city. Her small hand clung to his as she looked around nervously. When they reached the childcare center, she stopped and tugged his cloak.
*"Uncle... are you sure this is good?"* she asked softly.
Daimon knelt, his cold eyes softening slightly. *"Don't worry,"* he said calmly, *"if anything happens, I could wipe this entire city from existence."*
Lucy giggled. *"Of course! Uncle Daimon is the strongest!"*
As the caretakers came to take her in, Lucy turned and waved, shouting, *"Love you!"* Daimon gave a faint smile and turned, his cloak swaying as he walked away.
He headed straight to the Adventurers Guild. The receptionist greeted him, and he asked about available quests. She reminded him that the rank required for each mission was listed at the bottom of the quest board.
He scanned the board and paused at a familiar title — *"Investigate the Fallen Mountain"* — but it required a *First-Rate Soldier* rank. Frustrated but determined, he picked out 11 low-level quests, knowing that completing them all would qualify him for promotion.
The tasks were mundane — helping repair fences, gathering herbs, rescuing cats — unworthy of someone like him. But he endured them, one by one. After completing 10 of the missions, he returned to the guild, claimed his payment, and used part of the money to pay for Lucy's stay.
Then came the final quest — *"Explore a Mysterious Cave South of the City."*
By nightfall, Daimon stood at the entrance to the cave. Darkness surrounded it, yet he walked inside with no hesitation. The shadows parted before him, recognizing their master.
Inside, the cave was silent, cold, and old. Strange markings lined the walls — a forgotten script of ancient art. Daimon placed his palm against a carved seal. Sensing something hidden, he clenched his fist and punched through the wall.
Behind it, a narrow passage appeared, filled with dense aura.
He felt it immediately — *three distinct presences* deeper inside. One of them… nearly on par with the Hero of the North.
Daimon quietly pulled up his black cloak, hiding his presence, and stepped forward into the darkness.
*"Let's see what secrets you're hiding,"* he muttered.