The Former King City was unlike any place Dransart had seen. Its streets were lined with monuments to rulers who had once governed the seven realms. Even his companions recognized faces from legends, their spirits lingering in this realm of shadows. Yet amidst the grandeur, Dransart noticed a man without a home, sitting quietly by the roadside.
Curious, Dransart approached. "Why are you living outside? Doesn't the Hell Realm provide houses for its citizens?"
The man sighed. "I lost everything in a gamble. My house was sold for d-coins. Now I wander."
Dransart handed him a pouch of coins. "Then give me information about this realm."
The man's eyes lit up. "There are five cities here:
- Former King City – where past rulers dwell.
- Pride City – for those who died saving others.
- Lingering City – for souls with unfulfilled wishes.
- Wrath City – for those consumed by revenge.
- Resurrection City – for souls chosen to return to flesh and blood.
And above them all, the Hell Tower with seven floors:
- Servants
- Wrath City King
- Lingering City King
- Former King City King
- Pride City King
- Resurrection City King
- Hell Realm King
To enter the tower, you must collect keys from each city. But beware—the city kings' subordinates hold half the power."
Dransart prepared to meet the subordinate of the Former King City. But as he walked, familiar voices echoed.
"Sorry for the trouble we caused in life. How did you die?"
He turned. Before him stood Clever, Alovent, and Bange—foes he had slain.
They smiled. "There's a new in-charge here. We wanted to welcome you. Congratulations—you're the subordinate of this city."
Dransart frowned. "I forgive you. You tried to kill me, I killed you. We're even. But where is the subordinate?"
They laughed. "You are the subordinate. When you entered Hell, you conquered five realms—something never done before. You were promoted instantly. Look at your waist. The sack holds the key to the Hell Tower."
Dransart checked. Indeed, the key was there. His companions offered advice:
- "In Pride City, act like an aristocrat."
- "In Lingering City, don't bring women."
- "In Wrath City, act cowardly."
- "Resurrection City requires all four keys."
Dransart nodded. "Thank you. I hope you reach Resurrection City someday."
Now burdened with responsibility, Dransart had to manage the Former King City. Financial matters were simple, but security was paramount. He delegated paperwork to his Shift Sword, transformed into a pen.
The sword grumbled. "I am a legendary weapon, meant to slay armies. Yet you make me a pen."
Dransart chuckled. "Thank you for your hard work. Soon you'll return to battle. Hold on tight."
With the city stabilized, he returned to his chamber. His companions awaited, masks removed, their pact-bound bonds glowing faintly.
Night fell, and Dransart began dual cultivation once more, strengthening himself and his allies for the trials ahead.
Thus, Dransart becomes the Subordinate of the Former King City, entrusted with its security and finances. With the Hell Tower key in hand and guidance from his former foes, he prepares for the trials of Pride, Lingering, Wrath, and Resurrection. The path to the Hell King grows ever closer.