Xavier approached the front entrance of the dungeon's warped version of the Empire State Building, its once grand architecture now a twisted husk of its former self. Cracks ran up its walls, jagged like scars from battles long lost. The doors, weathered and covered in ominous markings, loomed before him. As he advanced, the distant sound of tearing flesh and pained shrieks echoed behind him.
Razer was busy ripping apart any nearby monsters, following Xavier's command to eliminate stragglers and gain extra EXP. The grotesque ghoul delighted in his task, his claws digging deep into the creatures' flesh, his jagged teeth snapping bones like twigs. Xavier turned his head as the system chimed, a crimson-tinted screen appearing before him.
[System Notification]
- Your subordinate, Razer, has leveled up to Level 2.
- Stats have increased.
- New skills may be available upon further inspection.
Xavier blinked, glancing over his shoulder at the monstrous creature, whose disturbingly long tongue now hung from his mouth like a panting dog. He resisted the urge to recoil and instead gave a short word of praise.
"Good job, Razer."
The ghoul paused mid-motion, tilting his head in an almost human-like manner. His expression—if it could be called that—seemed to shift, as though he understood but was confused by Xavier's words. The moment passed, and Xavier turned back toward the imposing structure before him. He was just about to step through the grand entrance when another system notification flashed before his eyes.
[System Notification]
- You are about to enter a classified structure: Tower.
- Towers are designed for players to climb, gaining experience, levels, and rewards.
- Floors: 103
- Difficulty increases progressively.
- Recommended level: 20 and Above
Xavier's breath hitched. "A Tower? Damn... no wonder this place gave me a bad feeling."
The recommended level requirement caught his attention. His current level was exactly 20—just barely qualifying him to enter. A mixture of anxiety and excitement coursed through him. Towers weren't just normal dungeons; they were structured trials designed to push players to their limits. The potential rewards inside could be immense, but so were the risks. If he wasn't prepared, he could easily meet his end within.
Still, the thrill of challenge stirred something deep inside him. He couldn't deny it—he wanted to see what was inside, what he could gain. His fingers twitched with anticipation as he watched another system prompt appear before him.
[Would you like to enter the Tower?]
[Yes] [No]
Xavier took a deep breath, steeling himself. He lifted his hand and pressed 'Yes.'
The moment he did, a blinding light erupted from the entrance, swirling with red and white energy. The heavy doors groaned as they slowly swung open, unveiling a portal-like glow awaiting him. The air around him grew heavier, humming with a strange force. He felt it in his bones—this was no ordinary dungeon. This was something far greater.
A grin pulled at his lips, despite the nervous energy bubbling inside him. "Alright then... let's see what you've got."
Turning slightly, he called out, "Razer, come."
The ghoul let out a guttural sound before skittering toward him, licking the blood off his claws. Together, they stepped into the shimmering light, venturing into the unknown depths of the Tower.