Days as a Spiritual Mentor in American Comics Chapter 5671 - 46095: Deadly Escape (28)

Upon Anatoli and Lucifer's arrival in Steel Needle’s chamber, the mechanism was already in a state of disrepair. A direct ascent through the ceiling was possible, obviating the need for the secret passage.

Lucifer experienced some difficulty during his climb. The confined nature of the passage necessitated a careful folding of his wings, yet even so, their edges sustained minor abrasions. Emerging at the top, he voiced his complaint, "Couldn't they have designed the passage with a bit more width?"

"I suspect even a wider passage would struggle to accommodate your wings," Anatoli responded, glancing back. "It's likely that Lucifer's wings have never endured such an ordeal since birth. This isn't a reflection of his capabilities, but rather a flaw in the passage's design, which failed to account for non-human beings, causing him unnecessary distress."

"I shall lodge a formal complaint," Lucifer declared, a hint of indignation in his tone. "A negative review will be issued, and other angels will be cautioned to steer clear of this particular dungeon."

"Aside from yourself, I doubt any other angel would be enticed to participate," Anatoli quipped. "Unless you fancy another encounter with Michael?"

"Oh, please. That fellow is incessantly ranting about shirking duties, and he's so rigidly bound by rules, he's utterly unsuited for engaging in games like this."

"I shall interpret your assessment as a compliment regarding my aptitude."

"Indeed, your proficiency is undeniable," Lucifer affirmed, his gaze settling on Anatoli. "I daresay, were I not present, the design department would be pounding on my office door the moment the mechanism malfunctioned."

"And who precisely constitutes this design department?" Anatoli inquired, feigning casualness.

"The composition is not fixed," Lucifer explained. "They engage a multitude of freelance creators; some are invited participants, while others join out of sheer interest. However, the majority of these independent dungeons originate from their collective efforts."

"In truth, one can discern distinct personal signatures across numerous dungeons. The comments section is rife with speculation regarding authorship. Certain individuals consistently garner accolades for their dungeon creations, while others… well…"

"I wouldn't characterize their efforts as outright failures," Lucifer stated after a brief pause. "However, designs that are excessively stylized heavily depend on audience reception. Some niche themes, while not violating the Battleworld regulations, still provoke the question of whether the designers ought to seek professional consultation."

"Who currently holds the highest ratings?" Anatoli pressed.

"The identities of the actual designers are largely unknown, hence they are referred to by codenames. However, based on the backend system data, dungeons associated with 'Greed' are presently the most highly acclaimed."

Within the monitoring room, Greed responded with an ostentatious flourish, bowing left and right as if accepting a prestigious award.

"And the reason for this?" Anatoli asked.

"I previously noted that overly stylized and niche themes lack broad appeal; the popular choices tend to be more conventional dungeons. While Greed's designs may not be superlative in every singular aspect, their strength lies in their overall balance. The artistic presentation, combat encounters, and narrative progression are all commendably executed, coupled with significant discounts and value-packed bundles, making them universally enjoyed."

Anatoli absorbed this information and then inquired, "And the less successful examples?"

"Undoubtedly, those originating from the mad inhabitants of Arkham Asylum," Lucifer sighed. "Their dungeon designs are excessively niche, often characterized by extreme difficulty and convoluted twists, replete with Riddler-esque puzzles and baffling philosophical discourse. Nevertheless, this very eccentricity has cultivated a devoted following among enthusiasts of niche works, who champion these 'madmen' with a fervor surpassing that of the average player."

"I understand your curiosity regarding the designer of this particular dungeon," Lucifer remarked, stroking his chin. "However, within Battleworld, the designers are merely fulfilling their commissions. Even if they inject elements of their personal eccentricities into the dungeon, it serves solely to escalate the challenge. Since no actual harm befalls anyone, and there is no intent of profiting from death, I advise against causing them undue distress."

Anatoli responded with a shake of his head. "I am not the type to resort to violence against game developers simply because a game proves excessively difficult. My objective is merely to ascertain the identity of the mastermind by identifying the lead designer, correct?"

"Ah, so that was your intention," Lucifer breathed a sigh of relief.

"You appear to have designed a considerable number of challenging dungeons yourself," Anatoli observed. "Are you concerned I might seek retribution later?"

"Uh..." Lucifer opened his mouth, a trace of embarrassment coloring his expression.

Anatoli, noticing his reaction, inquired, "Did your own dungeon not receive favorable reviews? Why the hesitation?"

"They claim I incorporated an excessive amount of religious themes, deeming it illicit proselytizing," Lucifer confessed with a dejected air. "Some comments even indicated a reluctance to purchase anything featuring 'Eden' elements. Consequently, my bundled offerings have seen limited sales."