Dungeon Crawler Carl

At 2:23 AM PST, the world undergoes a catastrophic transformation, instantly killing anyone indoors and destroying all man-made structures. Carl, the protagonist, finds himself outside in the cold, wearing minimal clothing and holding his ex-girlfriend's cat, Princess Donut. He reflects on the recent breakup with his girlfriend, Beatrice, who had gone on a trip without him and posted a picture with her ex-boyfriend. Feeling betrayed, Carl broke up with her and agreed to look after Donut until she returned.

Earlier that night, Carl woke up to smoke a cigarette, and Donut, who usually never ventured outside, suddenly jumped out the window. Despite the freezing temperature, Carl went outside to retrieve her. Just as he managed to get Donut back, the world around him transformed, crushing all buildings and killing everyone indoors. The only things left standing were natural objects like trees and a few scattered items.

In the aftermath, a robotic voice explains the situation: Earth has been seized by an alien corporation, the Borant Corporation, and is being mined for resources. The remaining humans are offered a chance to reclaim their lost matter by entering a 18-level World Dungeon. The voice provides detailed rules and instructions for the dungeon, including the number of entrances and the time limits for each level. Overwhelmed and in danger of freezing, Carl decides to head towards the nearest dungeon entrance, which appears as a spotlight in the ground.

Still reeling from the sudden transformation of the world, Carl descends into the first floor of the World Dungeon, a vast, ornate staircase leading down into a warm, humid environment. The stairs are adorned with intricate carvings of fish and demons, each triggering informational pop-ups in his mind. Upon reaching the bottom, he encounters a massive door with a carved fish demon, and an information box reveals it represents the Kua-Tin, the dominant species of the Borant System. Carl pushes open the door and enters a long, well-lit hallway, where Donut, who had been quiet, suddenly growls and bites Carl’s hand, causing him to drop her. Donut runs ahead, and the doors slam shut behind Carl, plunging the area into dimness.

A new, enthusiastic male voice greets Carl, welcoming him to the First Floor and informing him of the countdown to level collapse. Carl notices a blinking light near a junction, which turns out to be a sign, but he can’t read it from a distance. Donut, now swiping at the air, confirms that the information is visible to her as well. Carl receives a series of achievements and rewards for various actions, such as entering the dungeon with Donut and being unarmed. Overwhelmed by the amount of information, he tries to access his inventory menu, but it remains locked.

Deciding to explore the tunnel, Carl follows a neon sign pointing to 'Da Tutorial Guild.' He passes Donut, who follows reluctantly, and approaches a dark alley. As he steps in, a mechanical contraption, the Goblin Murder Dozer, emerges, driven by three goblins. Carl flees, and the goblins chase him down the main tunnel. At a junction, he chooses the right path, a narrower hallway, to avoid the dozer. He spots a wooden door with a sign reading 'Tutorial Guild' and rushes to it, hoping for refuge.

At the door, Carl encounters Mordecai, a bearded, rat-like creature who initially refuses to let him in due to the goblins outside. Carl manages to knock out one goblin and scare the other away, but he is forced to kill the first goblin to prevent it from reviving. Mordecai, panicked by Donut’s unauthorized entry, finally opens the door, allowing Carl to escape just as the dozer barrels past, crushing the goblin’s body. Carl slams the door shut, flipping off the enraged goblins as they screech in fury.

Still reeling from the intense battle with the Goblin Murder Dozer, Carl and Donut seek refuge in the Tutorial Guild Hall, a designated safe zone. Mordecai, the guildmaster, initially hesitates to let Carl in, particularly due to Donut’s unpredictable behavior. However, Carl’s quick thinking and bravery in dispatching the goblins earn him a temporary reprieve.

Mordecai, a level 50 Rat Hooligan, shares his background as a former dungeon crawler who has adapted to life within the dungeon’s system. He reveals his ability to shift forms based on the dungeon’s level and explains that the dungeon is tailored to the inhabitants of each world it invades. This customization ensures that survivors understand the game’s mechanics and notifications.

Carl, still grappling with the surreal nature of his new reality, presses Mordecai for more details about the dungeon and the fate of humanity. Mordecai, somewhat exasperated by Carl’s relentless questioning, reluctantly agrees to provide a brief overview. He mentions that this is the seventh or eighth human-seeded world, suggesting that humans are not unique and have been part of a larger, cyclical pattern of exploitation by the alien corporation.

As Carl processes this information, Mordecai invites him to sit down, hinting that there is much more to learn about the dungeon and the challenges ahead. The chapter ends with Carl feeling overwhelmed but determined to understand his new world and survive the dungeon’s perils.

Still reeling from the encounter with the Goblin Murder Dozer, Carl and Donut find themselves in the safety of the Tutorial Guild Hall. Mordecai, the guildmaster, begins a detailed tutorial on the workings of the dungeon. He explains that the Borant Corporation seeds compatible worlds with humans, waits for civilization to develop, and then reveals itself, exploiting the planet for resources and entertainment. The dungeon is a galactic game show, and Carl is one of millions of participants. Mordecai warns Carl that the real danger lies in the game’s mechanics, particularly the importance of gaining viewers, followers, and patrons to survive.

Mordecai guides Carl through the Crawler Menu, explaining various features such as the health bar, map, and stats. Carl’s initial stats are revealed, and Mordecai emphasizes the importance of strength and the limitations of Carl’s low intelligence score. The Ratings menu is introduced, highlighting the critical role of viewership in the game. Carl learns that the first floor is off-limits to live viewers, but highlights will be released, and gaining viewers on subsequent floors can lead to significant benefits, including loot from patrons. Mordecai stresses the need for Carl to stand out and attract attention to increase his chances of survival.

The tutorial continues with explanations of the skills menu, magic menu, and party management. Carl discovers that Donut, having an intelligence of two, qualifies for training and can access her own inventory. Mordecai also reveals that the dungeon’s structure becomes more complex and dangerous with each level, and the entrances to deeper levels are guarded by increasingly formidable challenges. Carl is informed that the second floor will open in about 30 hours, and the countdown timer for the first floor continues to tick.

Carl and Mordecai discuss the broader context of the dungeon, including the frequency of new seasons and the different styles of games run by various corporations. Mordecai shares his personal history, revealing that this is his last tour, and he will become a full citizen of the galaxy after this dungeon concludes. He also mentions the rarity of crawlers reaching deep levels, with only one human ever making it to level 13, where they died shortly after arrival. Carl is left to ponder the daunting challenges ahead as he prepares to face the second floor.

Still reeling from the tutorial on the dungeon’s mechanics, Mordecai activates Carl’s inventory, explaining the changes implemented by the Borant Corporation for this season. The new system allows for unlimited storage, with the only restrictions being the inability to store living creatures and a time-lock feature to prevent food spoilage. Mordecai gifts Carl a Standard Healing Potion, demonstrating how to add and use items from the inventory.

As Carl checks his notifications, he discovers a Legendary Pet Box, which surprises and slightly annoys Mordecai. Carl reviews his achievements and rewards, including several Bronze and Silver loot boxes. Mordecai explains the rules for opening loot boxes, emphasizing the importance of reading item descriptions carefully. Carl and Mordecai proceed to open the boxes, revealing a variety of items, including potions, weapons, and a Goblin Pass, which brands Carl’s arm.

The final two gold boxes contain enchanted apparel and a toe ring, leaving Carl feeling underwhelmed. The Legendary Pet Box opens with a fanfare, yielding an Enhanced Pet Biscuit. Mordecai explains that the effects of the biscuit are unpredictable, ranging from beneficial to harmful, but feeding it to Donut in a safe zone ensures she won’t attack Carl if the transformation is negative. Despite his hesitation, Carl feeds the biscuit to Donut, who immediately transforms into a wet, shaggy mass. Mordecai reassures Carl that the transformation is not negative and will resolve in 5 to 10 minutes.

Carl and Mordecai wait for Donut to transform back from her blob form, giving Carl the opportunity to examine his newly acquired loot. He equips the fingerless gloves and chooses the cudgel over the poker, finding the cudgel more sturdy and reliable. The Goblin Pass, branded onto his jacket, grants him free passage through goblin territories but also increases the damage from fairy-class creatures. Carl is not thrilled about the involuntary tattoo, as it goes against his personal preferences and values.

Next, Carl puts on the Enchanted Nightgaunt Cloak, which provides significant boosts to his constitution and resistance to various attacks. Mordecai praises the cloak's value but warns of potential negative reactions from Nightgaunts. The Enchanted Trollskin Shirt of Pummeling, which Carl also equips, significantly enhances his regeneration abilities and negates certain debuffs, making him a formidable tank. Mordecai emphasizes the shirt's rarity and the advantage it provides. Carl’s strength and combat capabilities are further augmented by the Enchanted Toe Ring of the Splatter Skunk, which boosts his unarmed combat skills.

While exploring his skills menu, Carl discovers a hidden skill for the classic video game Frogger, evoking memories of his childhood spent in the basement. The strange nature of the dungeon, composed of items from human civilization, becomes even more apparent. His thoughts are interrupted by a new, sultry female voice, which criticizes his lack of pants and questions Beatrice’s decision to hire him. To his surprise, the voice belongs to Donut, who has transformed back and seems to have gained the ability to speak.

Still reeling from the transformation, Carl and Mordecai are stunned to see Donut, now a speaking cat, with significantly boosted stats. She introduces herself as 'Princess Donut the Queen Anne Chonk,' insisting on her full title and displaying a newfound sense of authority. Mordecai explains that the Enhanced Pet Biscuit has granted her a unique growth buff, enhancing her strength, intelligence, and charisma, though her constitution and dexterity remain low.

Mordecai activates Donut’s menus, revealing a Legendary Quadruped box among other loot. Donut quickly masters her new interface, equipping the Enchanted Crown of the Sepsis Whore, which boosts her intelligence and grants a powerful debuff. However, the crown places her in the royal line of succession for the Blood Sultanate on the ninth floor, necessitating the slaying of the Sultan and other royals to progress. Mordecai warns Carl about the dangers of the crown and the potential conflicts it may bring.

Donut, now the party leader, renames the group 'The Royal Court of Princess Donut' and assigns Carl the title of 'Royal Bodyguard.' She declares her intention to reach the 18th level and resume her position as liege. Mordecai advises Carl to stay close to Donut for protection and warns him about the challenges ahead, especially on the ninth floor. The chapter ends with Donut scratching at the door, which opens on its own, signaling their readiness to continue their journey.

Mordecai's warnings about the dangers of floors 10 and 11 still echo in Carl's mind as he and Donut leave the Tutorial Guild Hall. Donut, now the party leader, insists on finding Carl some pants to avoid embarrassment on Martian social media. Frustrated with her newfound authority, Carl considers parting ways but is swayed when Donut reveals her deeper understanding of their bond and her fear of being alone.

Traveling east, they encounter a Bad Llama, a level 3 creature that spits lava. Despite his initial hesitation, Carl engages the llama, using his enhanced physical abilities to deliver powerful blows. Running out of mana, Donut cannot cast another spell, and Carl finishes the fight by rupturing the llama's lava-producing organ. He heals his broken hand with his regeneration ability, and they loot the corpse, gaining items and experience. Donut, now level 2, continues to offer critiques and suggestions, blending her old and new personalities.

The duo explores the dungeon, facing numerous rats and Scatterers, small but numerous enemies. Carl levels up to level 3, gaining new skills, including Foot Soldier and Smush. Donut jokes about exploiting the system's apparent foot fetish, and they continue to bicker as they navigate the dungeon. The environment becomes increasingly populated with strange, uniform bathrooms until they finally locate a safe room to rest and strategize.

Exhausted from their battle with the Bad Llama, Carl and Donut find refuge in a safe room that resembles a fast food restaurant, complete with a playground and a caretaker named Tally, a Bopca Protector. Donut, ever the child at heart, is thrilled by the playground, while Carl examines the screens displaying critical game information, including a countdown to the level collapse and the number of remaining crawlers, which has drastically decreased since they started. The restaurant has three exits, one leading to a hallway with rental rooms, and Tally offers to provide food and accommodations for Carl and Donut.

Carl orders food from Tally, who prepares a delicious Murgh Vindaloo for Carl and yogurt for Donut. While waiting, Carl opens a silver Adventurer Box, finding a silver ring that boosts his constitution. Donut also receives a gold magic item box containing potions and a Talisman of the Slate Butterfly, which improves her agility and makes winged fairies less hostile. Donut is delighted with the charm, which allows her to jump higher and move faster, though Carl is concerned about the noise it might make.

After a satisfying meal, Carl and Donut discuss their strategy. Carl suggests staying in the safe room for a couple of days to clear out a nearby nest of Scatterer bugs, gain experience, and prepare for the next level. Donut agrees but emphasizes the importance of gaining viewers and creating a memorable presence on the show. Tally, the caretaker, ensures they have a comfortable room and promises to prepare a fresh salmon for Donut upon their return.

Refreshed after a full night's sleep in the safe room provided by Tally, the Bopca Protector, Carl rises early. Donut, still insisting on her royal status, demands more sleep but is motivated by the promise of food. Carl takes a much-needed shower and shaves, noting the lack of towels, and enjoys a hearty meal prepared by Tally, which feels like a new start despite the ongoing chaos outside.

After eating, Carl and Donut discuss the dwindling number of survivors and the challenges faced by those who did not enter the dungeon. Tally provides limited information about the dungeon, focusing on the practicalities of the safe rooms. Carl and Donut then venture out to hunt Scatterer bugs, employing a strategy of using Donut's magic missiles followed by Carl's physical attacks to efficiently dispatch the pests.

As they progress, they encounter a larger, more dangerous Scatterer Brood Guardian, which requires a combination of Donut's magic and Carl's kicks to defeat. They collect alchemy materials and level up, with Donut's strength notably increasing due to her special buff. Carl and Donut approach a large, ominous door marked with a warning sign, and Donut detects numerous smaller Scatterers and unidentified objects inside.

Feeling reckless, Carl decides to use a stick of goblin dynamite to clear the room. He lights the fuse and tosses the dynamite inside, running as fast as he can with Donut. The chapter ends with the tension of the impending explosion.

Carl and Donut enter a large, trash-filled room after Carl detonates a stick of goblin dynamite, causing a concussion and minor injuries. The room is illuminated by multiple small fires, and Carl discovers numerous bug corpses, indicating that the explosion was successful in clearing the area. Donut, perched on Carl’s shoulder, licks her paw after stepping on a dirty diaper, and Carl reviews his notifications, which include skill upgrades and loot boxes for his successful use of explosives.

As they explore deeper into the room, the AI announces a Boss Battle, introducing the Hoarder, a 15-foot-tall, grotesque human woman trapped in her pile of rubbish. The Hoarder, a Level 7 Neighborhood Boss, is a horrifying figure covered in sores and scabs, and she begins vomiting Scatterers at Carl and Donut. Despite her monstrous appearance, the Hoarder pleads for help, revealing that she was once a regular person caught in the transformation.

Carl and Donut debate whether to help the Hoarder, but the constant emergence of Scatterers forces them to take action. Carl uses a metal leash to strangle the Hoarder from behind while Donut provides support with magic missiles. The Hoarder, weakened and disoriented, thrashes violently, and Carl delivers the final blows by punching her repeatedly. The battle ends with the Hoarder’s death, and the room resets, declaring The Royal Court of Princess Donut the winners.

Exhausted and emotionally drained, Carl slumps against the Hoarder’s lifeless form, the weight of the brutal encounter pressing down on him. The chapter ends with a sense of grim satisfaction and a stark reminder of the harsh realities of the dungeon.

After defeating the Hoarder, Carl and Donut navigate to a tutorial guild using a Neighborhood Map. Donut, eager to loot, spots the corpse of a Level 3 crawler named Rebecca W. They decide to consult Mordecai first, finding him asleep amidst a pile of empty bottles and a photo of his brother. Still slightly drunk, Mordecai explains the different types of bosses, from Neighborhood to Floor, and warns Carl about the increasing difficulty. He also informs them that all bosses drop persistent loot, and the crawler who kills the boss receives an achievement and a Boss Box.

Carl and Donut open their loot boxes, with Donut gaining a spell book for a spell called Torch, which she casts immediately despite Mordecai’s caution. Carl receives a variety of items, including a Tome of Wisp Armor, a Scroll of Confusing Fog, and Enchanted Spiked Kneepads of the Shade Gnoll Riot Forces. The kneepads provide damage reflection and cancel momentum-based attacks, much to Donut’s amusement.

Mordecai then reveals the existence of a secondary show that discusses the state of the game and interviews successful crawlers. Donut, eyes sparkling with excitement, insists they must get on the show, despite Carl’s skeptical frown. Carl and Mordecai exchange a wary glance, and Carl reluctantly agrees to consider it. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut preparing to continue their journey through the dungeon.

Still reeling from the discovery of Rebecca W's corpse, Carl and Donut decide to loot it. Mordecai explains that crawlers drop everything except unopened loot boxes, and non-crawlers can loot the body but not access the inventory. Carl hopes to find some pants for himself, but the woman is naked, and her body shows signs of being looted by goblins.

Upon closer inspection, Carl discovers that Rebecca was killed by a gunshot wound to the chest, likely inflicted by Frank Q. Apple Core. The realization that other crawlers pose a threat adds a new layer of danger to their journey. Carl is reminded of a painful memory involving his father, which surfaces unexpectedly, adding emotional depth to his character.

Donut, initially dismissive of the threat, suggests hunting down Frank Q for justice. Carl, despite his initial hesitation, agrees to track down the remaining red dots in the neighborhood for easy experience. He plans to return to the safe room to watch the premiere of the show and then search for the stairs and Frank Q. Donut expresses concern about the danger, but Carl reassures her that they will be careful.

Nearby, a group of red dots moves through a hallway, likely more rats. Carl suspects they won't encounter any more Scatterers in this neighborhood. As they prepare to hunt, the tension in their environment grows, emphasizing their determination and the looming threats.

Still reeling from the discovery of Rebecca W's body and the realization that other crawlers pose a significant threat, Carl, Donut, and Tally gather to watch the premiere of Dungeon Crawler World: Earth. The bizarre alien television show immerses viewers in the action with virtual reality, alternating between chaotic, disorienting scenes and a bird’s-eye view. Tally, a Bopca Protector, explains the different versions of the show and the grim fates of other planets featured in past seasons, highlighting the Squim Conglomerate’s exploitative practices.

The show focuses on Earth, presenting a highly edited and exaggerated version of human society, emphasizing its darkest and most violent aspects. Carl realizes that the show is designed to make Earth seem like a place that needs saving, justifying the alien corporation’s intervention. The segment transitions to scenes of the collapse and the formation of the dungeon, followed by footage of crawlers from various regions entering the dungeon and facing deadly challenges. Carl is struck by the sheer number of people who entered the dungeon, many of whom were from developing countries, and wonders about their motivations.

The show highlights successful crawlers, including a young girl named Lucia Mar and her rottweilers, who have achieved significant victories. Despite their efforts, Carl and Donut receive no screen time, leading Donut to demand more visibility. An announcement from the alien corporation provides updates on the number of bosses defeated and introduces new rules and patches for the dungeon, including the timing for descending to the next level. Donut insists on finding a city boss to gain more screen time, but Carl, aware of the risks, prioritizes finding an exit to the second floor.

Carl pulls up his map, realizing the immense challenge of locating one of the 75,000 entrances to the second floor within the vast area. With only three and a half days left, Carl and Donut must cover a lot of ground to find the staircase. The chapter ends with Carl’s determination to navigate the complex and dangerous environment of the dungeon.

Carl and Donut revisit the main corridor of the dungeon, recognizing the familiar layout of the area. Carl observes the structured grid of the dungeon, noting that the first few floors are a condensed version of the city above, divided into neighborhoods. They encounter new mobs, including slimes, which prove to be a significant threat due to their corrosive properties. Carl and Donut retreat after a painful encounter with a green slime, which nearly consumes Carl's arm.

Seeking a way to cover more ground, Carl suggests visiting the Tutorial Guild. Donut, using her high charisma, easily persuades a group of goblins into guiding them to the goblin engineers. They navigate through various types of goblins, including the dangerous Goblin Bomb Bards, without conflict. Inside the goblin workshop, they meet two high-level goblin shamankas, who are initially hostile but are quickly charmed by Donut’s persuasive abilities.

Donut’s charm leads the shamankas to reveal crucial information about the dungeon’s mechanics. The shamankas explain that the mobs will go to sleep when the floor collapses, only to awaken in a deeper level after the next dungeon cycle. They agree to build a steam-powered motorcycle for Carl in exchange for a rare drug, which they are eager to obtain. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut securing their transportation, setting the stage for their next major challenge.

After their successful encounter with the goblin shamankas, Carl and Donut receive a steam-powered motorcycle from the goblin engineers in exchange for a rare drug. The bike, a contraption made from a junkyard bicycle with an unreliable steam engine, is heavy but fits into Carl’s inventory. The engineers provide detailed instructions on how to operate the bike, including the use of a permacube for water and the importance of managing heat and pressure to prevent explosions.

Donut, using her high charisma, manipulates the goblins into starting a conflict with the llamas, who are suspected of hoarding the drug. The goblins, now in a frenzy, prepare for battle, leaving Carl and Donut alone in the workshop. Noticing the abandoned engineering supplies, Carl decides to loot everything they can before confronting the goblin chieftain. Donut, always eager for adventure, agrees to the plan.

The chapter ends with Carl and Donut preparing to loot the goblin workshop and then confront the chieftain, despite the potential risks and the moral implications of betraying the goblins who helped them.

Still reeling from the chaos in the goblin workshop, Carl and Donut quickly gather a variety of tools, engineering supplies, and explosives. They load a cart with black powder, metal fragments, and other materials, preparing to use it as a trap for the goblin chieftain. Donut, from the sidecar of the steam-powered motorcycle, directs the operation while Carl meticulously sets up the explosives, using a C4-like substance called Hobgoblin Pus and magical triggers to ensure maximum damage.

Before executing their plan, Carl and Donut discuss the potential repercussions of their actions. Carl acknowledges that the goblins might be angry, but he hopes they never have to face the consequences. They finalize their strategy, which involves pushing the loaded cart into the chieftain’s room, closing the door, and detonating the explosives from a safe distance. Donut opens the door, confirming the path is clear, and Carl shoves the cart into the room, slamming the door shut behind it.

Carl and Donut sprint through the dungeon, turning corners to avoid the blast. Once they reach a safe spot, Carl pulls out the detonator and prepares to activate it. Donut confirms the presence of the goblin chieftain, who was sitting and reading a book, surrounded by goblin babies. Carl presses the button, and the chapter ends with the anticipation of the explosion.

The explosion in the goblin workshop sends Carl and Donut sprawling, but they emerge unharmed. Dust cascades from the ceiling, and a deafening hiss fills the air, likely from the damaged boiler. As the whistling gradually subsides, occasional smaller blasts punctuate the silence. Achievement notifications flash, confirming their success in eliminating the neighborhood boss, and both Carl and Donut are now level eight.

Carl is deeply disturbed by the presence of goblin babies in the room, some of which he believes were hit by the cart. Donut, however, remains unfazed, describing the babies as cute and wearing oversized jackets. She is more concerned about the lack of a boss battle graphic, which she finds entertaining. Carl feels like an asshole and hesitates to check the achievement notifications. Donut tries to justify their actions, reminding Carl that the goblins are vile and that they didn’t ask to be in this situation.

Deciding to act quickly, they aim to retrieve the neighborhood map and flee before the other goblins return. The workshop is a smoldering ruin, with only blackened rubble and a fifteen-foot wall of fire remaining. Smoke vents away, preventing the area from filling with black smoke. They can only take a few steps into the room before the heat becomes unbearable. Donut notes that they should have taken all the coal, as the ignited coal now blocks their path to the boss chamber. Carl is relieved not to have to enter the room and see the dead babies and goblins.

A line of white dots on the minimap indicates that the other goblins are on their way. Donut’s charisma has increased to 39, but Carl doubts it will be enough to save them. They quickly plot an escape route into unknown territory, hoping to find a safe room to rest and review their new achievements. Despite the chaos, Donut grins, clearly enjoying Carl’s explosive tactics.

Disturbed by the new achievements mocking their actions, Carl and Donut struggle with the moral implications of killing infants and non-combatants. Despite the 'You Monster!' and 'War Criminal' notifications, Carl tries to rationalize the actions as part of the game's design, though he remains deeply troubled.

Seeking refuge, they find a safe room in the neighborhood of the rot stickers, small, black-hued ravioli-like creatures that suicide bomb themselves against targets. They rest and eat experience cookies, which provide a small boost in experience. Donut is particularly upset about receiving a Desperado Pass tattoo, which marks her as part of a disreputable club and negates the ability to obtain a Vanquisher pass.

As they open their loot boxes, Donut receives a new piece of enchanted fae scale armor and a tome called Minion Army, which teaches a spell to turn enemies into allies. Carl receives a Skill Potion that enhances his Determine Value skill, allowing him to sort items by value in his inventory. Equipping their new items, they prepare to rest before continuing their journey.

Despite the disturbing achievements and the moral dilemmas they present, Carl and Donut decide to take a nap in the safe room. Carl reflects on the nature of the dungeon and the aliens' manipulation, vowing not to let the game break him. Donut, still upset about the tattoo, curls up with Carl, purring loudly as they both try to find some peace before the next challenge.

Awoken by the start of the show on the television screen, Carl and Donut find themselves in the midst of day two. Donut is initially excited about the possibility of appearing on the show, but her enthusiasm is quickly dampened by the discovery of Frank Q. in the women’s bathroom. Frank, who claims to be a federal agent, tells a story that Carl finds suspicious. Carl notices inconsistencies, such as the experience points Frank received from eating a cookie, which suggest he was in a party with someone else. Frank’s nervous behavior further raises Carl’s suspicions.

Donut’s demeanor shifts from hostility to sympathy when Frank mentions his deceased partner, Maggie. To test Frank’s intentions, Carl sets a trap using a rat corpse and goblin dynamite, hoping it will explode if Frank loots it. Deciding that Frank and Maggie pose a threat, Carl and Donut choose to run. They leave the safe room and plot a path to the closest main artery, avoiding mobs to save time. As they run, Carl explains his reasoning to Donut, detailing the inconsistencies in Frank’s story and his suspicions about Frank’s true motives. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut riding the steam-powered motorcycle, putting as much distance as possible between them and the potential threat.

Following the explosion in the goblin workshop, Carl and Donut continue their journey on the steam-powered motorcycle, navigating the vast and desolate corridors of the dungeon. They receive an achievement for their encounter with Frank Q., labeled 'Bitchmeat,' which humorously suggests they are now each other's 'bitch' in the game. Carl laughs at the absurdity of the notification, momentarily lightening the mood.

The ride is smoother than expected, and Carl uses the opportunity to reflect on his past, particularly his relationship with his father, a motorcycle enthusiast who abandoned him 12 years ago. As they travel east, the landscape becomes increasingly barren, and they encounter fewer mobs and training guilds. Carl and Donut stop at a restroom to rest and loot some Scat Thugs, learning that the fog of war tightens as they move faster, making navigation more challenging.

After hours of travel, they spot a spray-painted sign directing them to a stairwell and a group of people. The sign warns them not to go deeper into the spiral, as it would activate a borough boss. Following the directions, they find a series of spray-painted messages and the remains of slain Chilly Goats, indicating recent crawler activity. They decide to investigate further, stopping at a T-junction where the map shows a stairwell at the center of a large circular area.

As they approach the center, they hear a rumbling and witness a massive, fleshy, Pac-man-like creature rushing past, emitting a foul odor. The creature confirms the presence of a significant threat in the spiral. Carl and Donut decide to wait and observe, cautious of the potential dangers ahead.

After hours of travel, Carl and Donut discover an encampment of survivors, primarily elderly individuals, led by a group of caregivers including Brandon, Chris, Yolanda, and Imani. The group shares their harrowing journey from an eldercare facility that was evacuated during a fire, only to find themselves trapped in the dungeon. Brandon details how they managed to bring the residents down the stairs, which transformed into a ramp, and the tragic loss of many residents and helpers who ventured into the maze.

Following their encounter with the encampment of survivors, Carl and Donut deliberate on their next steps. Carl is resolute about training the survivors to defend themselves against the looming threat, but he is also wary of the danger posed by other crawlers discovering the group. To safeguard the survivors, Carl defaces or alters the spray-painted signs leading to the encampment, hoping to deter any potential threats.

As they press on, Carl and Donut face more rats and troglodytes. Donut’s magic missile spell has grown more potent, allowing her to adjust the power setting for each cast. The troglodytes, known for their speed and venom, pose a formidable challenge. Carl and Donut coordinate their efforts, with Carl taking on physical attacks and Donut providing magical support. They spend hours hunting and killing troglodytes, honing their combat skills and gaining valuable experience.

Carl suggests that Donut practice using her claws, emphasizing her superior strength. However, Donut remains reluctant, preferring the precision and elegance of her magic missile spell. Despite her resistance, their teamwork continues to improve, and they manage to defeat a Troglodyte Basher, leaving only its head behind. As they advance, Carl and Donut discover the troglodyte boss room—a long, rectangular space with a smaller antechamber. They prepare to confront the boss, aware that it will be a significant test of their abilities.

Carl and Donut step into a high-ceilinged gym, a smaller boss room compared to the last one. The air is thick with the smell of sweat and testosterone, and the room is filled with fitness equipment. A level two troglodyte greets them, but Donut dispatches it quickly with a magic missile. The automatic door slams shut, and the boss battle music starts, signaling the arrival of The Juicer, a Level 9 Neighborhood Boss—a grotesquely muscular troglodyte with a lizard head and scaled body. Carl uses scrolls of Confusing Fog to temporarily blind the troglodytes and the boss, giving Donut and him the upper hand. Working together, they defeat the troglodytes and critically injure The Juicer, with Donut delivering a decisive bite to the boss’s neck.

After dispatching The Juicer, a Level 9 Neighborhood Boss, Carl and Donut return to the training guild to seek Mordecai’s counsel. Carl takes the opportunity to loot the gym, gathering weights, equipment, and office items, emphasizing the importance of leaving nothing behind. Meanwhile, Donut, still recovering from the battle, is preoccupied with cleaning the blood off herself, visibly frustrated by her inability to groom properly.

Mordecai commends Carl and Donut on their impressive victory and offers detailed feedback on their performance. He advises Carl to hone his bare knuckle skill, noting its effectiveness even without enchanted weapons. Mordecai suggests that Donut, with her higher intelligence, should read scrolls to maximize their duration. He also stresses the importance of identifying and exploiting enemy weaknesses, drawing parallels to their past encounters with the Bad Llama and The Juicer.

As they open their loot boxes, Donut equips a bracelet that boosts her dexterity and acquires a dozen Heal scrolls. Carl receives a Gold Brawler Box, which contains the Enchanted War Gauntlet of the Exalted Grull, a formidable right-handed gauntlet that enhances his strength and fighting prowess. Mordecai warns Carl about the gauntlet’s unique properties, including the risk of transforming targets into the war god Grull and the necessity of removing it before certain activities.

Mordecai also delves into the nature of the dungeon and its inhabitants, cautioning Carl about the distinction between real and fabricated elements. He explains that some bosses and mobs are not unwilling participants but are integral to the game’s design. The chapter concludes with Carl and Donut preparing to face the borough boss, fortified with new knowledge and enhanced equipment.

Still reeling from their victory over The Juicer, Carl and the group, including Brandon, Chris, Yolanda, Imani, and the unexpected addition of Agatha, prepare to face the Borough Boss, the Ball of Swine. The plan involves constructing a portable fortress, or 'Speedbump,' to stop the massive, rolling creature. The group practices the construction of the fortress, ensuring they can build it in under 20 seconds. The atmosphere is tense as the walls of the courtyard sink, and the boss is announced with dramatic music and a rave-like environment.

The Ball of Swine, a Level 15 Borough Boss, is a massive, flesh-covered sphere with embedded tusklings and various fabrics. It rolls at high speed, and the group must quickly move to avoid it. They construct the fortress in a strategic location, and the ball gets wedged between the ceiling and the structure. The pressure causes the ceiling to sag, and the group begins attacking the tusklings as they spill out. Despite the chaos, Carl and the others manage to inflict significant damage, and the tusklings, disoriented and weaponless, are quickly defeated.

The battle is brutal, with Carl using his spiked gauntlet and Donut’s magic missiles to take down the tusklings. Imani, Brandon, and Chris also contribute to the fight, while Agatha stands by, dazed. The internal walls retract, revealing a wide-open arena with a central stairwell surrounded by a red forcefield. Carl realizes that the forcefield will drop once all the tusklings are defeated. The group successfully clears the area, and the forcefield drops, allowing them to proceed to the next level.

The area is covered in the remains of crushed and disemboweled tuskling bodies, and the survivors are in various states of shock and exhaustion. Carl and Donut are now level 10, and the others have also leveled up, with Imani reaching level 11 and Chris and Brandon jumping to level 8. Agatha, who had joined the group, is now level 4, though she hasn’t gone through the tutorial and lacks an inventory.

Carl and Donut loot the fallen tuskling dominatrix, obtaining a Borough Field Guide that provides valuable information about the surrounding areas. They also salvage various items from the battlefield, including jewelry and a Pig Harness. Brandon shares insights from his guildmaster, Mistress Tiatha, about the Syndicate’s influence on Earth’s culture and the integration of human and alien elements in the dungeon. The group discusses their next steps, with Carl and Donut deciding to set up a safe place for the elderly survivors while they explore the new floor.

As they prepare to descend to the second floor, Carl and Brandon discuss the plan. Brandon thanks Carl and Donut for their help, and they shake hands. Carl and Donut then head down the ramp, which leads to a disorienting teleportation. They find themselves in a plush, boat-like room, where a woman named Lexis greets them. Lexis, an associate producer for the show Dungeon Crawler After Hours with Odette, congratulates Carl and Donut on their progress and invites them to be interviewed on the show.

Donut is ecstatic about the opportunity, while Carl is bewildered by the sudden change in scenery. The room is luxurious, with a couch, a carpet, and a bar. Carl realizes that they are on a boat, and the presence of the interview request suggests that the alien corporation is closely monitoring their progress. The chapter ends with Donut squealing with excitement at the prospect of appearing on the show.

Still reeling from the defeat of the Ball of Swine, Carl and Donut receive an invitation to appear on the intergalactic talk show, Dungeon Crawler After Hours with Odette. Lexis, the associate producer, briefs them on the rules and logistics of the interview, explaining that the set is virtual and that they are the only real beings present. Carl is still processing the surreal nature of the situation, while Donut is visibly excited and eager to participate.

During the interview, Donut takes the lead, charming the audience with her wit and charisma. She introduces herself as a member of Earth’s elective monarchy, a concept she fabricates on the spot, much to Carl’s surprise. Odette, intrigued by Donut’s background, plays a montage of Carl’s repeated exclamations of ‘Goddamnit, Donut,’ prompting Carl to reluctantly adopt it as his catchphrase. The audience is particularly entertained by a clip from their battle with the Hoarder, where Donut’s refusal to help Carl is highlighted.

As the interview progresses, Donut’s star quality shines through, and she promises the audience that they will follow her and Carl’s adventures, vowing to ‘kill them with style.’ The crowd goes wild, and Donut stands triumphantly, basking in the adoration. However, Carl is troubled by Donut’s newfound addiction to the attention and the potential consequences of her behavior.

Still reeling from the interview on Dungeon Crawler After Hours, Carl and Donut find themselves alone with Odette, who reveals her true form. She sheds her alien disguise—originally a praying mantis head and crab body—to expose a legless human woman. Odette explains that her appearance is part of her crawler armor, and she now uses a magical wheelchair to move around. She shares her past as a trainer and her current role as an entertainer in the alien corporation’s show business.

Odette offers crucial advice about the dungeon and the show. She warns them about the mud skippers, the real name for the alien corporation, and advises them to be cautious with their words. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining Donut’s current form as a cute, cuddly cat to retain their viewer base and warns against changing their race, as it can lead to a decline in popularity. Odette also reveals that Mordecai, their trainer, is under pressure to have his crawlers reach the fourth floor to avoid extending his indentureship. She advises Carl and Donut to be wary of others’ motivations and to rely only on themselves.

Odette further explains that the loot boxes are not entirely random and are influenced by the show’s producers to keep the game interesting and profitable. She shares her own experience of losing her legs and receiving a legendary item that allowed her to attach a crab body as a replacement. She warns Carl and Donut that the AI can either help or hinder them based on what makes the show more engaging. Before they leave, Odette confesses that Donut’s behavior during the interview was enhanced by a temporary boost from her cat treats, which increased her wisdom and confidence. Despite this, Odette’s primary motivation for helping them is to keep them alive and entertaining, as it benefits her financially.

Still reeling from the dramatic events on the first floor, Carl and Donut find themselves on the second floor, where Donut expresses disappointment at the lack of immediate followers. Carl reassures her that the ratings system won't activate until after the recap episode, which coincides with the closing of the first floor. They decide to head towards the stairwell to the third floor, which they spot on the map, while keeping an eye out for safe rooms.

As they explore, they encounter and kill a Level 2 Brindle Grub, which Donut speculates was killed by Agatha. They also face Danger Dingoes, Level 5 mobs with sharp teeth and a penchant for black metal. Donut, who has a strong aversion to dogs, quickly dispatches the dingoes with her magic missiles. Carl reflects on the fragility of the corpses once killed, noting that they must clean up after themselves to avoid attracting more dangerous creatures.

They find a safe room, which is a storm shelter with no food or vending machines but equipped with a mysterious mailbox. Carl examines his achievements and loot, including a Platinum Shoe Box that boosts his Pugilism skill. Donut, meanwhile, receives a spellbook via the mailbox, which grants her the necromancy spell Second Chance, allowing her to raise lower-level monsters for a short time. Despite her initial disgust, Donut is intrigued by the potential of the spell.

The chapter ends with Carl and Donut discussing the strategic advantages of using the necromancy spell, particularly in raising zombie dingoes to fight other dingoes, mirroring the tactics of successful crawlers like Lucia Mar.

Following the defeat of the Ball of Swine and the transition to the second floor, Carl and the group assist more survivors into the safe room as the next episode of the show premieres. The timer runs out, and the number of remaining crawlers drops dramatically, with over 700,000 people dying in a single second. The countdown to the next level collapse is reset to six days, shorter than the ten days previously expected. The group is shocked and concerned about the implications of this change.

Carl helps a woman named Elle McGibbons into the storm shelter, reflecting on the significant loss of life. Brandon discusses the group's plan to send the survivors down to the third floor early, as they cannot train and staying longer poses unnecessary risks. Carl agrees to help scout and clear the way for them. The group watches the show, which highlights various crawler groups and their successes, including Lucia Mar and her dogs. They briefly appear on the show, but the segment is short and focuses on their battle with the Ball of Swine.

The group notices that Agatha is missing from the show, leading to speculation about her fate. Sebastian points out that Agatha was edited out of the scene, suggesting a more sinister reason for her absence. Donut is excited about their appearance on the show and the potential for more screen time, but Carl warns her about the dangers of obsessing over it. The show ends with an announcement about the new rules for the second floor, including the activation of follows and favorites, and the introduction of a new patronage system.

The announcement also includes a strict rule against urinating or defecating outside designated bathroom areas, with severe penalties for violators. Brandon and Yolanda discuss the implications for one of the residents, Jack, who has a habit of urinating in the hallways. The chapter ends with Donut receiving her first follower and view, and Carl’s concern about her behavior in front of the camera.

Still reeling from the shock of the recent losses, Carl and Donut approach the quadrant with the stairwell, spotting a tutorial guild and another safe room. Their plan is to probe the monsters, assess their difficulty, and clear them if possible. Upon waking up to find their social numbers skyrocketing, they refocus on the task at hand, with Donut displaying a newfound seriousness as they encounter the first red dots on their map.

Three small, troll-like humanoids called Clurichauns, armed with slingshots and playing dice, are the first to confront them. Recognizing the Clurichauns as a fairy-class mob, which inflicts 20% more damage due to Carl’s Goblin Pass, Donut uses her magic missiles to kill them. She then tests her new Second Chance spell, raising one of the dead Clurichauns. The zombie Clurichaun, level one, remains active for one minute, during which it mutilates its own corpse. Disturbed by the experience, Donut and Carl decide to avoid raising more unless absolutely necessary.

Looting the Clurichauns, they find jugs of toilet-grade moonshine, which they learn is highly valuable and sought after on deeper floors. A pamphlet advertising the Rev-Up Moonshine Consultant business is also discovered, leading them to speculate about its intended audience. Carl decides to use the moonshine to create incendiary devices, which they test successfully. They continue clearing the outer ring of the quadrant, with Donut raising the dead and Carl practicing with a slingshot.

As they approach the boss room, they encounter a larger group of Clurichauns and two Laminak Rev-Up Consultant Elites, which are level 6 and immune to health-seeping attacks. Carl and Donut devise a plan to kill the mobs without destroying the valuable jugs of moonshine, aiming to loot the corpses for additional resources.

Still reeling from their encounter with the Clurichauns, Carl and Donut face a new challenge on the second floor. Donut's Puddle Jumper spell, now severely limited by low mana and a long cooldown, leaves her vulnerable. Carl decides to stay behind, allowing Donut to take the lead with her charm to manipulate the fairies and clurichauns. Her plan is to neutralize the fairies and lure the clurichauns into a trap.

Donut successfully charms the two fairy-class mobs, who order the clurichauns to cease their attacks. She leads them to a room filled with dead clurichauns, distracting them while Carl prepares to strike. Carl tosses two boom jugs into the room, causing an explosion that eliminates the clurichauns. However, one of the fairies escapes to the ceiling and launches a barrage of magic missiles at Carl. Donut swiftly catches and kills the fairy, and both she and Carl level up to level 11.

After the battle, they explore the room, discovering valuable items such as jugs of moonshine and an alchemy workstation. Among the loot is a bicycle-powered blender and a recipe for a Rev-Up Immunity Smoothie, which grants immunity to the Taint debuff and the Vigorous Measles. Despite their success, Carl is hesitant to proceed, wary of the potential presence of children or a dangerous moonshine still in the boss chamber.

Just as they decide to leave, the door to the boss room bursts open, and a pair of pink tentacles covered in screaming mouths emerge, trapping them inside. A new achievement appears, confirming that the boss can leave its room, and the chapter ends with the tentacles and screeching voices creating a terrifying and suspenseful atmosphere.

Still reeling from their victory over the clurichauns, Carl and Donut face the Krakaren, a Level 10 Neighborhood Boss known for its destructive and chaotic nature. The Krakaren consists of multiple shrieking tentacles, each capable of reproducing upon death, making the battle even more challenging. Tentacles burst into the room, forcing Carl and Donut to take cover as the tentacles swing blindly, smashing into pipes and splattering goo everywhere.

Carl and Donut quickly dispatch the clurichaun consultants guarding the entrance using Donut’s magic missiles. Carl then focuses on creating a Rev-Up Immunity Smoothie, a concoction that requires blending moonshine with the corpse of a laminak fairy. The process is messy and urgent, with Carl stuffing the fairy into a glass container and blending it using a bicycle-powered blender. The smoothie grants temporary immunity to health-seeping conditions and diseases but also induces the Buzzed debuff, affecting Carl’s dexterity and perception.

With the smoothie in hand, Carl and Donut retreat to the back of the room, setting up a shield to defend against the tentacles and clurichauns. Carl drinks the smoothie to gain immunity, and Donut follows suit, though the taste is horrific. More clurichauns and tentacles continue to attack, and Carl’s health is severely depleted by the enhanced damage from the goblin tattoo. Donut, affected by the Buzzed debuff, becomes more emotional and confesses her feelings for Carl, though her loyalty to Beatrice and Ferdinand remains strong.

Carl, despite his injuries, devises a plan to use a zombie clurichaun to deliver a boom jug into the boss chamber. He attaches a stick of dynamite to the zombie and sends it toward the doorway. As the zombie reaches the door, Carl and Donut brace themselves behind their shield. Carl, realizing the explosion might be too big, prepares for the worst, comforting Donut and instructing her to return to Brandon if he dies.

Following the intense battle with the Krakaren, Carl is severely injured, nearly losing his life. Donut, despite her own injuries, drags Carl to safety, and he barely survives with the help of a healing scroll. The room is in ruins, with the boss chamber filled with the remains of the Krakaren and the charred bodies of brindle grubs. Carl reflects on the bizarre and often cruel nature of the dungeon, realizing that the aliens are combining real creatures with Earth stereotypes for the benefit of the audience.

Still reeling from the battle, Carl and Donut head to the tutorial guild to consult Mordecai, who has transformed into a Bugaboo, a large, intimidating creature. Mordecai warns them about Odette, emphasizing her self-centered nature and the potential dangers of trusting her. He also reveals that the countdown to the next level collapse has been shortened to six days, a change he attributes to the show’s producers. Mordecai provides limited information about the dungeon’s mechanics, including the existence of location managers and the mix of AI-generated and real alien creatures.

Mordecai advises Carl and Donut to open their loot boxes before the arrival of a kua-tin named Zev, who has requested to speak with them. Carl receives a variety of items, including a new achievement for inventing a stackable weapon, and a pair of enchanted boxers that grant a powerful protective spell. The enchanted boxers are a humorous yet practical addition to his gear, providing a significant boost to his constitution and a defensive spell.

Just as Carl is about to use the Protective Shell spell, a stern warning message appears, and Zev materializes in the room. Zev’s sudden appearance and the accompanying warning create a tense atmosphere, setting the stage for a new and potentially dangerous encounter.

Carl and Donut, still reeling from the aftermath of the battle with the Krakaren, find themselves in the tutorial guild. There, they encounter Zev, a female kua-tin and Borant Corporation Assistant Communications Representative, dressed in a 1950s sci-fi astronaut suit. Zev explains her role as a liaison between Borant and privately-owned programs that wish to use crawlers for their shows. She informs Carl and Donut that they have been selected for the Crawler Assisted Outreach Program due to their growing popularity, and she will manage their interview requests and appearances.

Donut is thrilled about the opportunity to appear on more shows, while Carl is more skeptical. Zev explains that while they can refuse certain interviews, they are obligated to appear on at least one show per floor, with Odette having the first right of refusal. Zev schedules their next interview for 40 hours before the next recap episode, emphasizing the importance of aligning their activities with the show's schedule to maintain viewer interest.

Carl's frustration boils over, and he confronts Zev about the unfairness of their situation, expressing his anger and the fact that they are not willing participants. Zev responds with empathy, revealing that everyone, including her, is part of a larger, oppressive system. She explains that she is on their side and that their success benefits her as well. The conversation shifts to a lighter note when Donut and Zev bond over their shared interest in Earth TV shows, particularly Gossip Girl and Riverdale.

Mordecai takes Carl aside and warns him about the dangers of the kua-tin and the political party known as the Bloom, which controls the kua-tin system government. He explains that Borant is under pressure to end the game quickly due to financial constraints and government oversight. Carl and Donut decide to focus on clearing the quadrant and escorting Team Meadow Lark to the stairs before the next recap episode. The chapter ends with Zev disappearing, and Carl and Donut preparing to continue their mission.

Mordecai, in a fit of rage, expels a horde of level-two grubs from his room, only to realize that the grubs are being continuously spawned due to the large number of corpses from the recent battle. Carl and Donut, who are still processing their encounter with Zev, learn that the grubs are part of the dungeon's waste disposal system, which generates more grubs when corpses are present. The grubs are harmless but swarm in large numbers, making movement difficult and potentially dangerous if not properly managed.

Carl and Donut communicate with Brandon, who is leading the group of survivors, and inform them of the grub infestation. Brandon and his team have constructed a makeshift parade float to transport the elderly survivors, using pig harnesses and a magical chain to pull the contraption. The group is making good progress, and Carl and Donut head to meet them, navigating through the grub-infested hallways. The grubs, while harmless, are a nuisance, and Carl and Donut must be cautious to avoid generating more grubs by stepping on them.

Upon meeting the group, Carl and Donut are impressed by the ingenuity of the parade float. Brandon explains that they cleared out a boss room containing Mind Horrors, and Yolanda, now level nine, played a crucial role in the battle. The group is now focused on reaching the stairs and moving to the next floor. Carl reflects on the humanity of their actions, emphasizing the importance of helping each other, even if it means risking their own progress.

Zev, the kua-tin representative, interrupts Carl's thoughts, praising his statement about humanity and suggesting he repeat it for the cameras. Zev also warns Carl and Donut that the story is becoming a bit dry and suggests they add more excitement. The chapter ends with a shocking and disturbing scene where Jack, one of the elderly residents, stands up and urinates on the wall, violating the strict bathroom policy.

Following the confrontation with the Rage Elemental, Donut and Yolanda react in horror to Jack's violation of the bathroom policy. Donut leaps to attack Jack but pulls back, while Yolanda, with a steely resolve, shoots an arrow through his skull, killing him. Jack tumbles off the trailer, still urinating, and the urine on the wall begins to sizzle and smoke, summoning the Rage Elemental. The creature, a massive, smoke-like being with obsidian claws, materializes and immediately attacks, shredding Jack’s body and lunging at Yolanda and Randall. Yolanda and Randall are killed instantly, their bodies torn apart by the elemental’s fury.

Carl and Donut, along with the other survivors, race to the safe room. Carl casts a Protective Shell spell, which holds the Rage Elemental at bay, but the monster counters with a reverse gravity spell, causing everyone to fall upside down. Carl, carrying Mrs. McGibbons, navigates the reversed gravity and manages to get her to the safe room. The Rage Elemental continues its assault, pounding on the door, but the group secures themselves inside. The safe room is a dusty, abandoned chicken restaurant, and the survivors are in a state of shock and grief over the loss of Yolanda and Randall.

Mrs. McGibbons, now ninety-nine years old, thanks Carl for saving her and reflects on the characters of Yolanda and Randall. Brandon expresses his anger at Jack, who had knowingly violated the bathroom policy. The chapter ends with the group in the safe room, still hearing the Rage Elemental’s furious attempts to break through the door, and the realization that their actions have brought more danger and suffering to the survivors.

The recap episode opens with a graphic close-up of Jack’s uncircumcised penis, followed by a sensational montage of the events leading to the summoning of the Rage Elemental. The group, particularly Imani, is visibly disturbed by the footage, and Donut makes a snide comment about Carl’s anatomy, which he dismisses. The show then transitions to a compilation of crawlers being ambushed by bosses, including two scenes with Krakaren bosses. Inside the safe room, Carl and Donut, along with the survivors, watch as the Rage Elemental continues to pound on the door, and the grubs begin to swarm outside.

Carl and Donut receive new achievements for surviving the Reverse Gravity Spell and attacking a mob far above their level. They both receive platinum scratch-off tickets, which offer random effects when scratched, ranging from beneficial to detrimental. Donut is eager to use hers, but Carl advises caution, suggesting they discuss it first. The group watches the rest of the show, which highlights other successful crawlers like Lucia Mar and her rottweilers, and Hekla, the Valkyrie woman leading Brynhild’s Daughters. The episode concludes with a recap of the bathroom policy and the penalties for violating it, including the summoning of the Rage Elemental.

A new message from the alien corporation announces changes to the dungeon, including the removal of the bathroom penalties after the current floor collapses and the closure of safe rooms one hour before the floor collapse. The group is alarmed by this news, realizing they need to act quickly. Carl recalls a conversation with Rory, one of the goblin shamankas, about the grubs and the Rage Elemental. He deduces that the grubs might be a key to dealing with the elemental and decides to change their plan. Carl begins preparing for a new strategy, asking Brandon for help and moving items to create space in the safe room.

The Rage Elemental, distracted by the grubs, leaves the door and tears through them. However, it returns quickly, and Carl realizes that their original plan to wait for his Protective Shell spell to cooldown is no longer viable. He decides they need to act immediately, and he starts setting up a new trap to deal with the elemental.

Still reeling from the relentless assault of the Rage Elemental, Carl and the group quickly devise a contraption they dub the Mother of All Bombs (MOAB). Despite Brandon’s protests about the name, Carl insists on calling it the MOAB, a play on words that the others find less impressive. The group tests a daring plan to open the safe room door and trigger the elemental’s teleportation, which works, though the elemental quickly returns. After several trials, they confirm the elemental’s predictable pattern and decide to proceed with their plan.

Carl and Donut mount the MOAB on a modified steam-powered motorcycle, with Donut positioned to launch the bombs. They ride out of the safe room, evading the Rage Elemental, which is slowed by the grubs and ensnared by a chain. Carl and Donut use a combination of bombs, including boom jars and shredder babies, to create a fiery path behind them. The elemental, slowed by the chain and injured by the bombs, continues to pursue them.

As they approach the stairwell, Carl realizes the chopper is overheating and will explode. He orders Donut to jump and cast the Puddle Jumper spell to teleport them to a safer location. They successfully jump and teleport just as the Rage Elemental charges into the oil-slicked ground and slides into the stairwell, where it is dissolved by the dungeon’s rules. Carl and Donut, though shaken, are relieved to have survived the encounter.

Carl contacts Brandon to inform him that the way to the stairs is safe, urging him to move the survivors quickly. Despite their success, Carl and Donut do not receive experience points for the kill, as the dungeon’s system does not award points for indirect kills. They remain determined to continue their mission, knowing that more challenges lie ahead.

Still reeling from the intense battle with the Rage Elemental, Carl and Donut spend an hour torching all the pupae in the large room to prevent more grubs from hatching. Realizing they need to leave quickly and find an alternative mode of transportation after the destruction of their chopper, they are relieved when Brandon and the rest of Team Meadow Lark arrive with a makeshift transportation system. Carl says his goodbyes to the survivors, particularly to Mrs. McGibbons, who is confused and fearful. As the group heads down the ramp to the next floor, Carl and Donut watch, unsure if they will ever see them again.

Continuing their journey, Carl and Donut head towards the kobold quadrant, killing grubs and burning pupae along the way. They encounter a pair of kobold riders on Danger Dingoes, which Donut and Carl dispatch efficiently. During the fight, Donut reveals that she has a bonus to damage against canine creatures and mentions a fleeting 'Racial Benefits' tab in her menu. They find a safe room, which turns out to be an industrial kitchen with a working freezer and a mysterious toaster that refills mana. Preparing for their upcoming interview, they are interrupted when Mukta, a new admin, overrides their schedule, transporting them to a smaller, less luxurious boat for an interview on 'Death Watch Extreme Dungeon Mayhem.'

Still reeling from the confrontation with the Rage Elemental, Carl and Donut find themselves abruptly transported to a new, disturbing environment. They are now part of a show called 'Death Watch Extreme Dungeon Mayhem,' where the audience consists of young, pre-teen males who are cruel and bloodthirsty. The host, Maestro, an orc, introduces two fellow crawlers, Li Jun and Zhang, who are frozen in a deadly scenario with their companions. The Maestro explains that the crawlers must guess if other crawlers survive or die in various scenes, earning teleport points to save themselves or their companions.

Disgusted by the show's cruelty, Carl stands up and refuses to participate. He climbs out of the holo-table and demands to be heard. Administrator Mukta threatens to drown them if they do not comply. Determined to stand up to the Maestro, Carl agrees to participate but insists on playing Death Watch himself. The Maestro, initially resistant, is pressured by the audience's enthusiasm. Carl tells Li Jun and Zhang to run towards the troglodytes, bypassing the hornets, and they manage to escape.

The Maestro, visibly angered by Carl's defiance, is forced to allow the crawlers to escape. The audience's reaction is mixed, and the segment ends with Carl and Donut's successful intervention. Carl, with a triumphant smile, taunts the Maestro, who is left fuming.

Still reeling from the confrontation with the Rage Elemental, Carl and Donut find themselves transported to the show 'Death Watch Extreme Dungeon Mayhem.' The Maestro, an orc, introduces the audience to a recap of Carl and Donut's escape, which garners a positive reaction. However, the Maestro, visibly angered by Carl's earlier defiance, tries to regain control by insulting Carl and Donut, but Carl remains calm and strategic, aiming to provoke the Maestro further.

The Maestro reveals his prestigious background from the Skull Clan, which has a long history with the dungeon and has won multiple Faction Wars. He threatens Carl and Donut, warning them about the challenges they will face if they reach the ninth floor. Undeterred, Carl asks about the Maestro's involvement in the dungeon and the consequences of injury or death for the orc's family. The Maestro scoffs, dismissing Carl's questions.

The Maestro then introduces Frank Q. and Maggie My, the player killers Carl and Donut encountered earlier. The audience watches a recap of Frank and Maggie's journey, revealing their brutal murders of other crawlers, including the heartbreaking scene where Maggie suffocates her own daughter, Yvette. Carl and Donut are shocked and disturbed by the footage, especially when they realize Yvette was present during the trap they set for Frank and Maggie. The dynamite trap, intended for Frank and Maggie, also killed Yvette, adding a layer of guilt and tension to the confrontation.

The Maestro attempts to stir drama by asking leading questions, but Carl and Donut, along with Frank and Maggie, remain largely unresponsive. The audience grows restless, and the Maestro, desperate to salvage the show, offers parting gifts. Carl receives a pair of tactical boots, a gift intended to mock his preference for being barefoot, while Frank and Maggie receive a Legendary Skill Potion to enhance Frank's 'Find Crawler' ability. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut leaving the show, promising to face the Maestro and the other crawlers on the ninth floor.

Carl and Donut return to the safe room, where Donut opens her loot boxes and receives two Trap Modules. Carl reflects on the disturbing footage of Maggie My killing her daughter, Yvette, and the impact of the event on their own actions. Donut expresses relief that they didn’t directly cause Yvette’s death, but Carl is more focused on the emotional toll and the need to rest before continuing their journey.

The recap episode of the show airs, featuring the tragic fate of Le Mouvement, a group from Africa who encountered a city boss and were all killed except one survivor. The episode also highlights Lucia Mar’s combat skills and the detailed replay of Carl and Donut’s escape from the Rage Elemental. Despite their successful escape, they receive no experience points, and the show ends with Imani’s defiant gesture before descending to the third floor.

Zev, the kua-tin representative, appears to debrief Carl and Donut. She explains that she was temporarily suspended for warning them about the Rage Elemental but has been reinstated. Zev commends them for showing proper respect to the Borant corporation during the interview, despite the show’s cruel nature. She reveals that the Maestro is a prince of the Skull Empire, a powerful faction, and warns them about the political implications of their actions, including the viral spread of a fan-made video depicting Carl and the Maestro in a compromising situation.

Zev advises Carl and Donut to focus on building their characters and gaining levels before descending to the third floor. She mentions the importance of avoiding controversial choices during race and class selection and the need to create compelling content for the show. Carl is concerned about the potential backlash from the Skull Empire, but Zev reassures him that the Borant corporation will protect them as long as they do not disparage the company or the Syndicate. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut preparing to face the challenges ahead, with Donut teasing Carl about the viral video.

Still reeling from the confrontation with the Rage Elemental, Carl and Donut follow the loud, thrumming metal music to locate the kobold boss chamber. The music is so intense that it physically hurts, and they have to communicate via the chat. They kill several kobolds and dingoes along the way, leveling up to level 12. The boss chamber is set up as a giant dog kennel, with cages of danger dingoes and an ominous, large door at the end of the middle hallway.

Carl and Donut notice the dingoes are in poor condition, and Carl decides to feed them pet biscuits to turn them friendly. They successfully turn 14 dingoes from red to white on the minimap. Just as Carl prepares to throw a boom jug into the boss chamber, the music stops, and the double barn doors open, revealing a mass of cheering kobolds. The boss, Ralph Frenzied Gerbil, a level 11 Neighborhood Boss, is about to be released from a small cage.

The battle begins, and Carl throws a boom jug, killing most of the kobolds and the kobold holding the cage. The gerbil, Ralph, is launched out of the cage and lands down the hallway. Donut hits it with a magic missile, and the one-eyed dingo, which Carl had previously fed, pounces on Ralph and swallows him whole. The other dingoes turn on the remaining kobolds, finishing them off. Carl realizes the battle isn’t over and prepares for another attack.

The dingo that swallowed Ralph suddenly explodes, and the gerbil flies at Carl’s throat. Carl punches it, stunning it, and then stomps on it, killing the boss. Donut makes a snide comment about paying the 'Daddy tax,' referencing a past comment from Beatrice, which Carl finds unsettling.

Stepping into the kobold boss chamber, Carl and Donut find themselves in a large, round fighting arena filled with the stench of death and a pile of bones as tall as the ceiling. The arena is surrounded by wooden chairs, and a line of cages against the back wall houses various monsters. As they approach the cages, two achievements pop up, indicating they have discovered a reward room and a pet reward room. The achievements also mention that the room itself is the reward and that they have a key to open only one cage.

Donut immediately sets her sights on a small, pink, downy-feathered chicken dinosaur called a Mongoliensis, despite the creature's aggressive and hot-headed nature. Carl is hesitant and suggests a brindle grub, but Donut insists on the Mongoliensis, naming it Mongo. Carl reluctantly agrees and uses the key to open the cage. The little dinosaur immediately attacks, biting both Carl and Donut, but Donut persists in trying to bond with it using pet biscuits.

Despite the initial aggression, Donut remains determined to bond with Mongo. She promises to dress it up for interviews, and Mongo, though still feisty, seems to respond to her efforts. Carl examines Mongo’s properties, learning that it is a pet-class mob that will attack any mobs it sees and fight to the death. The chapter ends with Donut claiming that she and Mongo are practically best friends, despite the creature’s continued hostility.

Carl and Donut focus on bonding with Mongo, their new pet-class mob, a process that is both frustrating and amusing. Mongo’s aggressive behavior and Donut’s persistence in taming him become a source of entertainment for the show’s audience. Despite the lack of major battles, their growing viewership and the public’s fascination with the pet bonding process keep their ratings high. Zev, their PR agent, is thrilled with their numbers and encourages Carl to continue with more dynamic and entertaining actions, though Carl prefers to practice with his slingshot.

Carl and Donut visit Mordecai to discuss the third floor and the process of bonding with Mongo. Mordecai explains the complexities of pet bonding and the importance of teaching Mongo restraint. He also reveals that Mongo will not level up until he is bonded and that the little dinosaur has a long way to go before reaching his full size. With the timer ticking down, Carl and Donut intensify their training efforts, using food motivation and combat scenarios to help Mongo learn to follow commands and fight effectively.

Their efforts pay off when Mongo finally bonds with Donut, turning from a hostile attacker into a loyal companion. As they reflect on their progress, Carl notices suspicious items in his inventory history, including a pulse pistol from the Valtay Corporation, which were originally in Agatha’s shopping cart. This discovery raises questions about Agatha’s role and the potential involvement of the system AI. Despite the curiosity, Carl decides not to pursue the matter further, recognizing the dangers of getting involved in something beyond his understanding.

With the timer down to six hours, Carl and Donut prepare to descend to the third floor, reflecting on the challenges ahead and the emotional weight of their journey. The chapter ends with Carl and Donut, accompanied by the newly bonded Mongo, heading down the stairs, ready to face whatever the third floor holds.

Donut chases Mongo around the studio, causing chaos with his aggressive behavior and frequent collisions with the invisible walls. Lexis, Odette’s production assistant, had given Mongo a bow tie, which he promptly ripped off, but the taping goes well as Donut trains Mongo to perch quietly on her back. Odette discusses the controversy surrounding the 'Pork Boy Snick' video and the Skull Empire's reaction, advising Carl and Donut on pet bonding and the importance of choosing the right class for the third floor. She also warns Carl about the Valtay Corporation and their potential involvement with Agatha.