Chapter 7: The Gathering Storm
The world has begun to change, and I can feel the tension rising in the air. The players are awakening, each taking their first steps into the Tower, but they are unaware of the true nature of the trial that awaits them. It's not just about climbing floors or choosing classes. It's about survival — and the countdown is ticking faster than they realize.
In the quiet of my room, the system's alerts continue to flood in. The numbers shift constantly as players make their selections and begin their ascent. Floor 10, the threshold of class awakenings, is a pivotal moment, but it's only the beginning of a much darker path.
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System Assistant: "Administrator, player progress update. Over 50% of the global player base has reached Floor 10. Class awakenings have stabilized, with combat classes still dominating. No new revelations on hidden classes as of yet."
I stare at the numbers with a sense of detachment. The world may think the Tower is simply a game, a challenge to overcome, but it's more than that. It's a battle for resources, for dominance, for survival. Only those with the foresight to adapt will last.
The next phase is approaching — the first monster wave.
System Assistant: "Administrator, preparations for the first monster wave are underway. Estimated arrival: 20 days, 4 hours."
I lean back in my chair, my fingers tapping the armrest as I consider the coming storm. The countdown is down to the final stretch. Soon, the world will witness the true chaos of the Tower. The monsters, once confined to the lower floors, will rise in full force.
And with them, the true test of the players' strength will begin.
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Inside the Tower — Floor 12
Isabel, now a fully awakened Warrior, strides confidently through the dimly lit corridors of Floor 12. The monsters here are stronger, more aggressive, but she doesn't falter. Her greatsword gleams in the flickering torchlight, its weight no longer a burden but a natural extension of her will. She moves with purpose, cutting down any creature that dares to cross her path.
The thrill of combat surges through her. She's always been driven by the need for strength, and now she feels it coursing through her veins. Every strike, every blow, is a step closer to mastering her craft. But she knows there is more to this than just defeating monsters.
Ahead, the path splits into two — one leading deeper into the floor, the other leading to an arena-like space where a new challenge awaits. Her instincts scream at her to take the harder path. There's no room for hesitation. She steps forward, muscles coiled and ready for the fight.
The monsters here are more than just mindless beasts. They are intelligent, strategic. They have begun to adapt, just like the players. This is no longer a mere test of power. It's a test of strategy, wit, and endurance.
And Isabel is ready for it.
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On Earth — Global Response
The news is everywhere. Social media buzzes with excitement as players push forward, each determined to carve their name into history. Governments are scrambling to organize their own responses, gathering resources and forming alliances with top players.
News Reports:
"Reports from the Philippines: The first Rogue to reach Floor 13 has been seen using a combination of stealth and speed to evade a monster horde!"
"Canada's first Mage has cleared Floor 12 with impressive use of elemental magic, obliterating entire monster waves with firestorms!"
"BREAKING: The first Healer from Italy has been spotted reviving players in battle! Their healing ability is drawing attention from elite teams around the world."
The media is abuzz with reports of rising stars and heroic feats. But behind the scenes, governments are making their own preparations. They know that this is more than just a game. This is the beginning of an all-out war — not just for survival, but for the future of humanity.
System Assistant: "Administrator, global player statistics update. Tracking of high-potential players has been initiated."
A new screen appears before me, showing the players who have reached higher floors and demonstrated exceptional potential. Some names are already flagged — players who are not only strong but show the intelligence and adaptability needed to thrive in the Tower's harsh environment.
I scan the list, picking out the notable figures: A Warrior from the United States with unmatched strength. A Mage from South Korea with an affinity for lightning magic. A Rogue from Russia whose speed is almost supernatural. A Healer from France whose abilities to heal and cleanse ailments have made her invaluable to teams.
But it's the ones who remain in the shadows, the ones whose names haven't yet appeared, that interest me. They are the true wild cards. They are the players who will either rise to the challenge or crumble beneath it.
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Back to Me — A Quiet Reflection
I stand before the large window in my room, looking out at the swirling chaos below. The world is changing. The players are awakening, and the Tower is shifting with each passing day. Soon, the first wave of monsters will descend, and the real test will begin.
System Assistant: "Administrator, a message from the global government coalition has been received. They are requesting a summit regarding the escalating developments surrounding the Tower."
I pause, my fingers resting on the desk as I consider their request. The government coalition, scrambling to maintain control, has already started to mobilize. Their resources, though vast, will do little to prepare them for what's coming.
Me: "Notify them I will address their concerns when I see fit. Until then, no further action is necessary."
System Assistant: "Acknowledged."
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I turn away from the window, my gaze fixed on the ticking countdown.
20 days, 2 hours, 47 minutes.
The storm is coming. And when it does, only those who understand the true nature of the Tower will survive.
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End of Chapter 7