Chapter 9: Dotting Brother
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MC's Perspective
The atmosphere in the tower is heavy with anticipation. The first monster wave draws closer with every passing minute, and the air feels charged, electric. I remain on high alert as I monitor the system's feeds, watching the group of players. They're making remarkable progress, but there's one thing I know for sure: not all of them will survive what's coming.
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System:
"Administrator, a new anomaly has been detected on Floor 13. A group of players, including some with newly unlocked hidden classes, is rapidly advancing."
I shift my attention to the group. Three players stand out, each showing exceptional ability. There's Isabel, the one who recently unlocked the hidden class of Dark Knight. A powerhouse in her own right, she wields the shadows with remarkable control. Then there's Akiro, the swordsman whose movements are as swift as lightning, an expert in both offense and defense. Finally, Hana, a mage who has unlocked the class of Arcane Mage, a rare and potent magic-based class.
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MC (thinking):
These three are pushing through the tower's trials faster than any of the others. If they keep this up, they'll be at the top in no time. But there's something strange about their synchronization — it's as if they're being guided by an unseen hand.
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Inside the Tower — Isabel's Perspective
The shadows swirl around me as I test the limits of my newfound Dark Knight abilities. Every swing of my sword feels more powerful, the darkness infusing my strikes with a weight and intensity I've never known before. It's exhilarating — and terrifying.
I step forward into the next trial room, ready for whatever challenge awaits. The Trial of the Cursed Flame looms ahead. My heart races. I've heard whispers about this trial, how it's meant to test not only strength but also endurance and willpower.
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System:
"Trial of the Cursed Flame: Engage. Only those with immense determination can withstand the trial. Failure will result in permanent damage to your progress."
The floor beneath me shifts, and flames begin to rise from the cracks in the stone. They roar to life, bending around me like serpents, aiming to scorch me to ash.
I summon every ounce of focus, channeling the dark power of my class. Shadows envelop my body, giving me the protection I need, but the flames are relentless, adapting to every move I make. The heat is unbearable, and for a moment, I feel the pressure start to overwhelm me.
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MC's Perspective
I watch Isabel on the monitor as the Trial of the Cursed Flame begins. I can see the fire raging around her, trying to break her resolve. Her ability to withstand the pressure will be crucial. The Dark Knight class gives her an edge, but the flames are no ordinary force. They seem to have a mind of their own.
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Inside the Tower — Isabel's Perspective
The fire is suffocating. I can feel the heat searing through my armor, and the constant pressure of the flames is starting to wear me down. But I won't give up. I can't.
I tap into the full power of the Dark Knight. The shadows answer my call, coiling around me like a second skin. They shield me from the worst of the flames, but the fire is relentless. Every time I think I've gotten the upper hand, another wave of fire surges toward me.
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System:
"Warning: The intensity of the flames will increase. Prepare yourself."
I steel myself. This is the true test. If I can survive this, I'll prove not only my strength but my resolve.
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MC's Perspective
I'm watching Isabel's every move. The Trial of the Cursed Flame is a harrowing test — I know that she's giving everything she has to survive it. The flames are cruel, but her dark power is a match for them, even if only barely. I can sense her determination, but will it be enough?
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Inside the Tower — Isabel's Perspective
I feel my stamina waning, but I push forward. The fire doesn't stop, but neither do I. The shadows respond to my will, growing stronger with every strike. My sword cleaves through the flames, and for a brief moment, I feel like I'm in control.
But then, the trial intensifies. The flames twist and form into fiery beasts, attacking me from every direction. I can't keep up with them all. Sweat drips from my brow, and my movements become sluggish as exhaustion starts to take its toll.
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MC's Perspective
I can see it. Isabel's resolve is strong, but it's beginning to crack. The fire is growing more chaotic, more unpredictable. She's almost out of time.
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Inside the Tower — Isabel's Perspective
Just as I'm about to give in, I feel something shift within me. The darkness in my soul flares, and a surge of power courses through my body. The shadows grow stronger, more fluid, and suddenly, the flames no longer feel like a threat. Instead, they seem to bend to my will.
With one final strike, I break through the wall of fire. The trial is over.
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System:
"Trial of the Cursed Flame completed. Rewards: Enhanced Dark Knight abilities, +10 to physical strength."
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MC's Perspective
I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. Isabel's victory is more than just a testament to her strength; it's a sign of her potential. This Dark Knight class is not just powerful — it's dangerous. She'll be an asset to this tower, but she could also become a force I'll need to keep an eye on.
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End of Chapter 9