The tower's clearing, once a place of shared accomplishment and unity, now witnessed the diverse forces converging with an air of anticipation.
The human forces—Eldoria, Serenith, Dracoria, Solara, Glaciera, Terranheim, Mariposa, and Celestia—were joined by the vampire and werewolf forces, each driven by their ambition to claim victory over the awakened Hobgoblin King.
The sight of this multitude of players, united yet divided by their individual aspirations, was a testament to the complexity of the tower's challenges.
The clearing buzzed with palpable energy, their footsteps resonating with urgency as they advanced toward the gate leading to the second floor.
The panel's announcement of the Hobgoblin King's awakening had sent shockwaves through the assembled forces. It was followed by another system message that heightened their determination and greed:
[The Hobgoblin King had awakened]
[Please Kill Hobgoblin King: 0/1]
[Reward for killing Hobgoblin King: Custom Skill: 0/1]
As the words hung in the air, the leaders of the forces exchanged glances, their expressions ranging from awe to avarice.
The prospect of a custom skill, a unique power borne from the defeat of the Hobgoblin King, had ignited a fierce desire within them.
Astrid of Eldoria, her crimson eyes reflecting a mix of resolve and curiosity, took a step forward. "The Hobgoblin King… this is a challenge unlike any we've faced. But the reward—a custom skill—it could change the course of our journey within the tower."
Alexander of Serenith, his sharp gaze never missing a detail, nodded in agreement. "This is an opportunity we can't ignore. But the competition will be fierce. We must be prepared for the unexpected."
Carlos of Dracoria's grin was tinged with a predatory edge. "A custom skill… think of the power we'd wield. We'll make sure no one stands in our way."
Liam of Solara, his healing magic a subtle luminescence, added, "Our healing abilities will be crucial. Let's not forget our unity amidst this competition."
Sophia of Glaciera's icy demeanor hid a fierce determination. "We won't be outmaneuvered. Our control over the battlefield will give us an edge."
Aiden of Terranheim's stoic expression didn't waver. "Our strength in defense will ensure that we're not easily overcome."
Isabella of Mariposa's playful smile carried a hint of cunning. "Speed and agility will be our allies. We'll seize the moment when it presents itself."
Gabriel of Celestia's serene voice held a note of divine purpose. "Our celestial magic will guide us through the darkness. Let's face this challenge with unwavering faith."
As the eight human forces staked their claims, the vampire and werewolf leaders stepped forward as well, their eyes gleaming with ambition.
Valerius, the leader of the vampires, exuded an aura of regal confidence. "The reward will belong to those who prove themselves worthy. Our kind knows the value of power."
Magnus, the leader of the werewolves, met the others' gazes with a hint of challenge. "We'll claim the reward that our strength demands. The tower is a battlefield, and we're not ones to back down."
The human and supernatural forces stood in a tense standoff, their aspirations forming an intricate tapestry of rivalry and determination.
Conversations rippled through the clearing as the leaders exchanged words with their respective members.
Astrid's voice carried across the clearing, her tone one of assurance. "We've faced countless trials together. Let's not forget the strength of our unity."
Carlos's charismatic laughter followed, his gaze meeting the eyes of his players. "Our goal remains unchanged. The tower is ours for the taking."
Valerius's voice held a regal edge as she addressed her vampire kin. "Our kind is legendary for a reason. Let's prove our prowess."
Magnus's wolfish grin ignited a spark of resolve among the werewolves. "We've never shied away from challenges. This is no different."
As the leaders rallied their forces, their ambitions were palpable, and the tension in the clearing grew more tangible.
The promise of a custom skill, a power unique to the victor, had cast a spell of fervor upon them all.
But amidst the ambitions and rivalries, a question remained: who would be the first to face the Hobgoblin King and emerge victorious?
The clearing held its breath, poised on the edge of a clash that would test not only their strength but also their unity and determination.
The tower had once again woven a tale of challenges and choices, and the players were ready to seize their destinies, one swing of the sword at a time.
As the human and supernatural forces marched toward the gate, the anticipation for the impending clash was palpable.
The question of who would be the first to face the Hobogoblin King and claim victory loomed over them all, hanging like a shadow of uncertainty.
But even though they were still a considerable distance away from the gate, fate had already answered their question.
In front of the gate, standing as a solitary figure with eyes as crimson as the setting sun, was Daimon.
His enigmatic presence seemed to shimmer with anticipation, his smile holding the promise of a tale yet to be told. Before him, a system panel materialized:
"[Guardian of the gate to the second floor: Hobgoblin King]"
"[Challenge: Yes/No]"
"[Attention. Only a group of four could fight the Hobgoblin King]"
Daimon's laughter danced through the air as he regarded the system panel. The situation was unfolding in a manner that amused him, a twist of fate that he had anticipated. His smile deepened, a touch of intrigue in his crimson eyes.
"To think that only four people are allowed to face the Hobgoblin King," Daimon mused aloud, his voice carrying a note of amusement.
Daunib, the intelligent AI companion by his side, responded, "Their armies will be in quite a stir upon realizing this requirement."
Daimon's laughter rippled again, his amusement uncontainable. "I was hoping to witness the expressions on their faces, but defeating this Hobgoblin King might suffice."
His gaze remained fixed on the system panel, his thoughts a mosaic of possibilities. "And if I were to claim the reward… oh, the expressions they'll wear then."
The intrigue of the situation was not lost on him. Daimon's smile turned enigmatic as he made his decision. With a calm yet determined voice, he selected the option "Yes."
As the words left his lips, a burst of light enveloped him. The clearing seemed to shudder as Daimon's form dissolved, leaving only a lingering echo of his presence.
In an instant, he found himself transported to the domain of the Hobogoblin King, a realm of shadows and power.