Many Miles Outside the Tower

“He did it.” The King said.

“What do you mean sire? Draconis asked

They were traveling by carriage heading northeast towards the Kingdom about twenty miles past Compound Gamma.

“He has Trixie.” The King said

“What happened sir?” Draconis asked

“Trixie, as you know, was my daughter’s Matrix. She was also my lovely wife’s Matrix before that. She was passed down through many generations in fact.” The King said

“How is that possible sire?”

“Many Matrices are able to be transferred to their next of Kin. That part is not uncommon among those who know. Even Regis and Alexander had prior humans they were bounded to before being sent to myself and my brother” the King Explained

“What is so special about this matrix?” Draconis asked

“Her very first human was Mary the White Queen.” The King said

“But How? She was killed by the Black King.” Draconis said

“The original six found her shortly after the White King went into his Berserker furry. They gave her a proper burial and salvaged the matrix. The poor soul had been tortured and so the new king had to do a bit of memory blocking. They then installed her into the next queen and the next and the next after that until it was my daughters turn. Each time she was installed into someone else, we locked those memories. It seems that Katrina chose to give Trixie to her newborn son and had the matrix removed prior to her death. Kreado, I later found out, had kept it hidden from us until it was time for Collin to attend the compound. Kreado installed Trixie into Collin and there it was until nearly seven years ago when it had to be removed. A few months ago we came for a visit. Do you remember? Well I was able to get my hands on Trixie and chose to remove the memory blocks. She has been processing ever since, awaiting for Collin to find her” The King explained

“Sir but… but… that might kill Collin. “ Draconis said

“It might, however it did not. Collin has reached stage six. He is a Monarch of Matrices.” The King said

“Monarch of…what!? What does that even mean?” Draconis asked

“It means, He is the ruler of my kind.” Draconis’s Matrix Zurg said..

“He is to be the King of all Matrices. He will need to prove himself to the other towers as he has here, but once he has, his power will be on par with my own.” The king said

“The network is already in a buzz about it sir. The tales of his accomplishments with Delilah and that he is being personally trained by Regis, Alexander, and the other legendaries have spread all throughout the kingdom. The other towers are currently preparing themselves to test and train him even more. There are even rumors going around that his abilities allow for the matrix to eat, drink, and talk like an actual human.” Zurg said

“Is this true?” Draconis asked.

The King nodded.

“Once he becomes the new King of Gridarnia, he will rule over all.” The King said.

The two sat there in silence staring out of the window towards the tower. Even from this distance, he could see the light shining brightly on the Fortieth Floor.

Collin

“Your majesty, please wake up.” Amergin said.

Collin came to and noticed he was laying in a makeshift bed near the edge of the room. Megan and Haley were sitting at a table a few feet away. Collin sat up and they rushed forward to check on him. Haley immediately began running tests and preparing additional healing spells.

“It is good to see you awake. Megan said.

“What happened?” Collin asked

“We do not know. The elevator came down and allowed us to come up. We found you here by yourself and have been waiting for you to wake up.” Haley said.

“Did I beat her?” Collin asked. He then shook his head. “I think I am starting to remember. Trixie? Are you there?”

“I am here.” She replied inside his mind.

“Hi” He said mentally

“Hello.” she said softly.

“I am sorry I hurt you.” Collin thought

“It is okay. It had to happen. The leader of each section has to be beaten in order for them to be released from the tower. I am completely, One Hundred Percent, Yours.” She said, Collin could sense her giggle a bit. It felt so wonderful to have her back in his mind.

“Is everyone else here? Amergin, did you just call me Majesty?” Collin asked.

There was a series of hellos from all of his obtained matrices. Collin heard them as clear as if they were in front of him, however they appeared to be far off in the distance.

“Yes sire. That is the proper way to speak to our King.” Amergin said

“Trixie. What happened after we merged? Can you organize and show me the status screens?” Collin asked. Multiple screens popped up in front of him and reorganized themselves so he could examine them.

Collin’s Primary Matrix “ Trixie” Equipped

Dungeon Core “Tonya” Removed

Matrix “Trixie” Moved to Primary Slot

Secondary Matrix - Captain, Completely Absorbed by Matrix “Trixie”

Battle Tower Matrix Completely Absorbed by Matrix “Trixie”

Dungeon Core Tonya Equipped to Secondary Slot

Temporarily Created Slots removed

All Limits Removed

All Locked Titles Recovered

All Locked Abilities Recovered

All Locked Skills Recovered

All Locked Spells Recovered

Matrix System Evolution Activated

Hierarchy of Matrices Activated

All Hidden and Locked information unlocked

“Trixie” Prior bond information unlocked

Prior Bonds: Katrina II, Elizabeth, Rosary, Jasmine, Mary

“Trixie” Prior Bond Class, Skills, Abilities, and Spells Unlocked

New Class Stage 6 Unlocked

The Matrix Monarch

Floor 40 Complete

Rewards:

500,000 Battle Coins (BC), 50 Health Potion, 50 Mana potion, +250,000 Assorted Crafting Material, +100 Void/Dark Elemental Core, + 25 Battle Tower Golden Chest Keys, +30 Battle Tower Silver Chest Keys, +25 Battle Tower Bronze Chest Keys, Primary Matrix “Trixie”, +1 F Master Ninja Conjuration

Final Floor Challenges Unlocked

“Tonya. Are you there?” Collin asked

“I…I…I am here sir. Hello! There we go. That is better. Hello honey. It is good to hear from you. I am sorry but we have been very busy outside.” Tonya said

“How is Ray?” Collin asked

“Ray is missing. We are searching everywhere. He, Mace, and Annie were attempting to cross the Arkadian Desert and were ambushed. Winged Jackals. We do not know where they are.” Tonya said

“How long have they been missing?” Collin asked, urgency showed in his voice causing the girls to look at him worriedly. They unfortunately were unable to hear Tonya.

“We lost contact two weeks after you entered the tower.” Tonya said.

“I will come just as soon as I can.” Collin said “Tonya, have you met Trixie?”

“We have sir. We have been communicating back and forth ever since she was reinstalled. Such a lovely Queen.” Tonya said.

“Queen? Trixie, Can you explain to me what has happened?” Collin asked

“The secondary matrix and battle matrix were always a temporary fix until I returned. Tonya being a dungeon core was not part of the original planning but we managed to work through those hiccups. Essentially I have absorbed the other matrices and allowed Tonya to take up a newly created secondary slot. Instead of relying on Tiny, Amergin, and the others for assistance, I am capable of handling everything simultaneously. We are currently working on the hierarchy and roles to move forward on.” Trixie explained

“What is this bit about the prior bonds? Also why did you never tell me you were bonded before?” Collin asked

“It appears my memories were blocked after each human. I truly thought I was a newborn bond when I was first installed into you. “ Trixie said.

“Who is Mary? Like Mary the White Queen Mary?” Collin asked

“Yes. Mary was my first bond. I have spent many months trying to process this. There are parts that are still blocked due to the trauma of it all. I do have all of the memories and experiences from the queens who came after Mary. Those lovely ladies were my best friends” Trixie said happily.

“Matrices were not even created then though! How is this possible?”

“Sir. That is a lie that we tell the public. Matrices have been around since the very beginning of magic. “ Regis stated

Collin had more questions and the matrices tried their best to answer them. All of the prior bonded classes, abilities, skills, and spells were unlocked and available for Collin to learn. This did not mean he automatically knew them and could use them. It just meant he could choose to learn them without the need of finding a teacher, skill book, or rune. Collin browsed through the explanation of the new system evolution and paused at the stage six class he had unlocked.

New Class Stage 6 Unlocked

The Matrix Monarch

Description:

You have become the King of Matrices. All Matrices have been informed of your reign. All human’s bonded to a matrix have become aware of your authority. You have unlocked all knowledge associated with the subject “Matrix” (Example: History, skills, classes, Abilities).

Information will become available as you level up to prevent overload

+15 to All Stats

Stage: 6

Class Archetype: Final

“I do not understand.” Collin said.

“From what I am able to determine, your bloodline, your mastery of the conjuration summons, and having me as your matrix were all significant factors to reach the next stage of your abilities.” Trixie said.

“Trixie is and always has been our queen and as you are her bonded human, you in turn are our king.” Regis said

“Where was all of this when we were here in the compound? No one treated us like royalty then?!” Collin said annoyingly.

“My memories, skills, abilities, and authority were all blocked. The others truly believed I was just another Matrix.” trixie explained. She then brought up the other screens.

Name: Collin Chintzy

Age: 29

Weight: 200 lbs

Height 6’ 0”

Citizenship: Affirmative

Military Status: Retired/Reserve

Military Rank: Captain

Adventurer Status: Active

Adventurer Rank:

Master - Teacher

Health: 100%

Health Rank: S

Health Recovery: High

Mana: 100%

Mana Rank: S

Mana Recovery: High

Level: 115

Strength 120

Defense 88

Health 137

Agility 137

Intelligence 137

Class:

Matrix Monarch Stage 6 Level 1

Jack of All Stage 5 Level 15

Master Summoner Stage 5 Level 30

Weapon Proficiency: All

Elemental Affinities 100%

Nature, Earth, Fire, Water, Air, Void, Dark, Light, Holy, Sand, Lava, Ice, Metal, Lightning, Steam

Matrix - 2/2

Trixie - Primary

Tonya (Dungeon Core) - Secondary

Conjurations/Matrix (131)

Select for List

Conjuration Gearset:

Select for List

Inventory:

Battle Coins (BC): 3 Million

Battle Chest Keys: 100 Gold, 250 Silver, 500 Bronze

Potion Bag

Adventure Bag” Collin”

Crafting:

Assorted Metal x 1 Million

Assorted Wood x 1 Million

Assorted Cloth x 1 Million

Assorted Leather x 500,000

Assorted Gems x 10,000

Assorted Bones x 300,000

Assorted Dreadnought Parts X 100

Elemental Cores x 3,000

Titles:

Matrix Monarch, Jack of All, Vice Baron of Gridarnia Region XI (72%) Vice Lord of The Goldenleaf Village, Prince #2 of Gridarnia, Friend of Gnome, Matrix Monarch

Bond (0/0)

Unavailable

Gearset:

* Adventurer

* Voided Shadow

* Forest Ranger

* Desert Bender

* Siege

* Healing

* Jack’s Battle Fatigues

Current Weapons:

Masters Legendary Wand

Dynamic Obelisk - Legendary (Dagger/Katana)

Skills: Select for List

Abilities: Select for List

Clone Conjuration:

1. Arcanist Level 10

2. Elite Ranger Level 10

3. Brawler Level 10

4. Spellblade Level 10

5. Elite Priest Level 10

Archer Class (12)

Tiny M - Master Ranger Level 10

Sky F - Elite Ranger Level 30. Mage Level 10

Amber F - Lancer Level 30, Mage Level 10

Blue M -Lancer Level 35

Bronze M - Arcane Ranger Level 35

Hazel F -Elite Ranger Level 10

Pebble F - Ranger Level 40, Mage Level 10

Charles M - Ranger Level 35, Rogue Level 10

Hailey F- Ranger Level 35

Jaimee M - Ranger Level 25

Nathanel - M Trapper Level 15

Irene - F Trapper Level 15

Healer Class (14)

Isaac -M Dark Paladin Level 15

Eve - F Dark Paladin Level 14

Atlas M - Sage Level 35

George - M Sage Level 23

Alexis -F Sage Level 20

Sarah F - Elite Priest Level 30, Mage Level 10

Olive F - Elite Priest Level 30, Mage Level 10

Indigo F - Elite Priest Level 35

Fossil M-Elite Priest Level 24

Ginger F - Elite Priest Level 25

Slate M - Elite Priest Level 18

Hannah F- Priest Level 25

Alexis F - Priest Level 22

Gonzales M -Priest Level 26

Support Class (20)

Amergin M - Master Druid Level 35

Jasper M - Master Tamer Level 35

Cynthia F - Master Performer Level 30

Honey F - Bard Level 30, Singer Level 10

Oat M - Elite Druid - Level 10

Henry - M Druid Level 16

Marilyn - F Druid Level 16

Buttermilk F - Dancer Level 30, Singer Level 10

Oswalde-M Trickster Level 18

Harley - F Trickster Level 21

Leonardo - M Illusionist Level 18

Sidney - F Illusionist Level 18

Toby - Bard Level 30

Wayne M - Bard Level 30, Mage Level 10

Taylor F - Dancer Level 30, Rogue Level 10

John M- Bard - Level 30, Fighter Level 10

Aaron - M Summoner Level 15

Sophia - F Summoner Level 15

Noah -M Singer Level 15

Mia - F Singer Level 15

Rogue Class (17)

Trixie F - Master Ninja Level 1

Asano - M Afflictionist Level 18

Erika - F Afflictionist Level 18

Miguel - M Shapeshifter Level 14

Candace - F Shapeshifter Level 14

Marissa F - Master Ninja Level 11

Burgundy M - Phantom Level 24

Shadow M - Shadowmancer Level 24

Jack M - Elite Ninja Level 24

Rip M - Elite Ninja Level 25

Harry - M Ninja Level 23

Chavez M - Ninja Level 23

Stefan M - Ninja Level 22

Bree F - Ninja Level 22

Pearl F - Ninja Level 22

Hudson- M Gambler Level 18

Henrietta - F Gambler Level 18

Mage Class (15)

Anastasia F - Necromancer Level 20, Priest Level 20

William M Alchemist Level 17

Emily - F Alchemist Level 18

Elijah - M Artificer Level 18

Emma- F Artificer Level 19

Apollo - Warlock Level 30

Gold M - Master Warlock Level 11

Red M - Arcanist Level 35

Penny F - Elite Sorcerer Level 35

Eminence F - Elite Sorcerer Level 26

Grady - Elite Sorcerer Level 27

Debra F - Elite Sorcerer Level 27

Sofia F - Sorcerer Level 23

Jasmine F - Sorcerer Level 23

Aspen F - Sorcerer Level 23

Tank Class (13)

Merlot M - Paladin Level 35

Tarrence - Elite Knight Level 35

Brown M - Elite Knight Level 35

Clay M - Elite Knight Level 22

Carrot M - Shaman Level 18

Davis M - Death Knight Level 17

Bruce - M Dark Knight Level 17

Barbara - F Dark Knight Level 16

Balian -M Templar Level 18

Sibylia -F Templar Level 18

JuliaEF - Knight Level 23

Terra F - Knight Level 26

Bell F - Knight Level 25

Fighter Class (17)

Midbar M - WarMaster Level 30

Pedro M Dragoon Level 18

Arial - F Dragoon Level 18

Ruby F -Warden Level 32

Iggy M - Warden Level 24

Steel M - Master Champion Level 10

Roran M - Berserker Level 35

Crimson M - Berserker level 35

Blood M - Brawler Level 35

Alabama F- Crusader Level 18

Alloy F - Marauder Level 18

Flint M - Brawler Level 21

Derek M - Spellblade Level 18

Pete - M Swashbuckler Level 17

Elizabeth - F Swashbuckler Level 17

Benjamin - M Monk Level 21

Amelia -F Monk Level 23

Newborn Class (3)

Bonnie F - Mimic Level 50

Gertrude F - Mimic Level 50

"Hank" M - Mimic Level 50

Free Lancer (2)

Regis - King Level 10

Alexander - Jack of All Level 10

Black Chest Prison (3)

Xavier Warden Class

Clerenda Necromancer Class

Delilah Trickster Class

Armorer (16)

Sigurd M - Dreadnought Level 30

Zephyr M- Dreadnought Level 15

Pepper - F Dreadnought - Air Level 20

Tony -M Dreadnought - Earth Level 20

Virginia - F Dreadnaught - Water Level 20

Robert -M Dreadnaught - Fire Level 20

Oliver - M Artillerist Level 17

Olivia - F Artillerist Level 16

Weston - M Machinist Level 18

Grace - F Machinist Level 18

Joseph - M Battle Smith Level 17

Riley - F Battle Smith Level 19

Jose- M Engineer Level 17

Charlotte- F Engineer Level 18

Edward - M Armorer Level 19

Angela- F Armorer Level 17

Megearna Tucker (Matrix: Carter)

Age: 27

Region: Capitol

Class: Arcane Ranger Level 32

Affinity: Dark/Void, Fire

Skills:

Fire Manipulation, Dark Manipulation, Shadow Minion, Volley of Arrows, Power Shot, Blade Frenzy, Hunter’s Mark, Grappling Shot, Flashstep,

Haley Westwood (Matrix: Willow)

Age: 26

Region: Capitol

Class: Sage Level 34

Affinity: Holy/Light, Water

Skills:

Bless, Mass Heal, Max Barrier, Water Manipulation, Light Manipulation, Smite, Angelic Wings, Prismatic Beam

“Do I no longer have a limit on the number of conjurations?” Collin asked

“Not within the confines of the tower. In fact, we are already receiving requests from matrices in the tower to join you.” Trixie said

“Matrices want to join me.” Collin said surprisingly

“You have treated us well sir. You allow us to experience the world through your abilities. Word spreads fast in this tower. Many matrices young and old are wanting a chance to explore the world again even if it is just as your conjuration. We are also getting requests from fugitive and criminal matrices. There are the rotten eggs, but there are also those who are wanting a chance at redemption like what you have provided Anastasia and Iggy.” Tiny said

“You may want to let us handle those decisions sir. We need a minimum amount of matrices for the tower to function correctly. We also need to save some for the incoming pledges. There is a limit once we leave the Tower’s scope of power that we must consider. This limit will increase as we progress further. You will also have opportunities to obtain other matrices when we complete the other battle towers.” Amergin explained.

“Can I no longer obtain a bonded familiar?” Collin asked

“It appears not. We are unsure as to the reasoning also. I am sorry love” Tonya said

“It’s okay. I have enough voices in my head.” Collin said before moving forward

“That is a good way to think of it. Bonded familiers are messy anyway.” Regis said laughingly

“Trixie. Please confer with the heads of each Archetype, Regis, and Alexander. I will let you decide on everything matrix related moving forward. Please update and organize the list so we can better manage the upgrades and stage progressions” Collin said.

He needed to get out of this tower and probably a month to consolidate all that had transpired. His nerves were starting to get the best of him. He needed a vacation and evidently he also needed to go find Ray.

“Collin. We have ten more floors to go.” Haley said.

“Do we know what the next ten will be?” Megan asked

“Demons, Magical Beasts, and Dragons.” Tiny said.

“There is a challenge screen sir.” Amergin said. Collin brought it up to inspect

Final Challenges and Rewards.

Limits: 3 Teams of 5 units

41. Challenge: 1000 Lesser Demons, 1 Archdemon -Reward 10 Gold, 20 Silver, 50 Bronze BTC Keys

42. Challenge: 5 Archdemons - Reward 10 Gold, 20 Silver, 50 Bronze BTC Keys

43. Challenge: 500 Lesser Demons, 1 Demon Lord -Reward 10 Gold, 20 Silver, 50 Bronze BTC Keys

44. Challenge: 750 Lesser Demons, 3 Archdemons, 2 Demon Lord -Reward 10 Gold, 20 Silver, 50 Bronze BTC Keys

45. Challenge: Lust & Sloth- Reward: ??? , ???

46. Challenge: Glutton & Greed - Reward: ??? , ???

47. Challenge: Envy - Reward: ???

48. Challenge: Wrath - Reward: ???

49. Challenge: Pride -Reward: ???

50. Challenge: Dragon Slayer “Max” - Reward: “Max” Matrix, 100 Gold, 200 Silver, 300 Bronze BTC Keys

“Looks like we will have to face the seven deadly sins.” Collin said

“What is that?” Megan asked

“The church believes there to be seven sins that make up all of sin. Envy, Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Pride, and Wrath” Haley said

“I do not understand.” Megan said

“We will more than likely have to complete a challenge associated with that type of sin.” Collin said.

“We should focus on the first few floors sir. Demons are not to be taken lightly.” Trixie said.

“Triplets!?” Collin yelled.

“Yes sir.” the three said, appearing in front of him.

“Can you tell me how to kill a demon?” Collin asked. He knew how to and assumed everyone else did too. The triplets were new however and needed to learn a few things before they progressed further.

“Are they different from killing other things?” Hank asked

“Yes. A demon, even a lesser one such as an imp, or harpie is very difficult to kill. Demon’s are immune to fire based attacks. Lava will work but you need a large amount of it. They can be killed with magic based attacks that completely obliterate them. Holy and Light attacks are the most effective. For non magic kills, you will need to either separate their head from their body using decapitating moves or shoot them in the head or heart with a mana infused arrow. Piercing them through the heart with a mana infused blade also works. Their limbs can regrow at a very fast rate. Their blood is also toxic. The compound teaches to always take a demon in groups and to never trust that you have successfully killed one. Some higher ranked demons are able to survive even after being stabbed through the heart and having their head cut off. Now, killing them here in the lands of Gridarnia will not actually kill them. What happens is they are banished back to their realm where eventually, they can come back. We do not know how long this process takes. There have been recordings of a particular demon dying and coming back a year later. There are records of the same demon coming back a month later. You will know that your attack has killed them if you see them evaporate into black smoke. Always be aware of the smoke. It is also toxic, but signifies the demon's soul returning back to its realm. Any questions?” Collin asked after explaining

“Can Demons talk? Bonnie asked

“The higher ranked demons have some intelligence and some can communicate and use magic of their own. The lowest rank of demons are driven purely on instinct and a need to feed. They are similar to a horde of zombies but much more animalistic. A demon wrangler for instance is a mid rank demon whose entire responsibility is to herd the lesser demons and command them on where to go. Killing a wrangler will cause the lesser demons to go wild in any and all directions.” Regis explained

“For the next few floors, we can only simulate a demon based on the knowledge and experiences obtained from matrices who have fought on the front lines. Do not take what you do here as law. The outside world is and can be completely different.” Atlas added

“We are allowed three teams of five units moving forward. Trixie, do you have any recommendations?”Collin asked.

“I do! I am bringing up the teams now. With your approval, we should alternate the teams between floors so they can continue to obtain experience as well as work on team synergy.” Trixie said

Team 1

Collin - Jack of All lvl 15

Megan -Arcane Ranger Level 32

Haley - Sage Level 34

Bonnie F - Mimic Level 50

Hank M - Mimic Level 50

Team 2

Merlot M - Paladin Lvl 35

Ruby F -Warden Level 32

Blue M -Lancer Lvl 35

Olive F - Elite Priest Lvl 30, Mage Lvl 1

Red M - Arcanist Lvl 35

Team 3

Gold M - Master Warlock Lvl 11

Tarrence - Elite Knight Lvl 35

Marissa F - Master Ninja Lvl 11

Tiny M - Master Ranger Lvl 10

Sarah F - Elite Priest Lvl 30, Mage Lvl 10

Team 4

Midbar M - WarMaster Lvl 30

Roran M - Berserker Level 35

Amergin M - Master Druid Level 35

Jasper M - Master Tamer Level 35

Cynthia F - Master Performer Level 30

Team 5

Sigurd M - Dreadnought Lvl 30

Zephyr M- Dreadnought Lvl 15

Atlas M - Sage Lvl 35

Apollo - Warlock Lvl 30

Gertrude F - Mimic Level 50

“Gerti, I want you to stay close to Mr. Apollo and Mr. Atlas. They are going to help you with your wand and spell use. Hank and Bonnie stay next to Haley and make sure she does not get overwhelmed by the horde.”

“Yes Sir!” The three said. Hank appeared and ran over to hug Haley before disappearing again.

“Do my clone conjurations count as a team?” Collin asked

“They do not.” Trixie stated. Another screen popped up.

Clone Conjuration Setup

Collin - Clone #1 - Void Gear Set Equipped - Arcanist Level 10

Collin - Clone #2 - Ranger Gear Set Equipped - Elite Ranger Level 10

Collin - Clone #3 - Desert Gear Set Equipped - Brawler Level 10

Collin - Clone #4 - Adventurer Set Equipped - Spellblade Level 10

Collin - Clone #5 - Healer Set Equipped - Elite Priest Level 10

“How come my clones have not increased in level or stage?” Collin asked

“How come you have not made them increase in level and stage?” Alexander asked

“Wait, what?” Collin said in confusion

“The clone conjuration ability is a copy of you and your abilities. You cannot create a clone with a class that you have not mastered such as a necromancer, but by consolidating your knowledge you were able to create the Spellblade and Arcanist clone. The type of clones you create are dependent on your knowledge and ability.” Alexander explained.

“You should have a fairly high understanding of the fundamental archetypes at this point. Fighter, Shield, Healer, Archer, Mage and Rogue. You also have mastered the four basic elements and a few of the sub elements. You should be able to adjust your clones up to the fifth stage.” Amergin added.

“Why does the clone conjurations not count towards the team limit?” Collin asked

“Your clones are not controlled by the tower or an acquired matrix. They are a split of you and your primary matrix’s skills and abilities. You are able to switch places with your clones at any given time and you can see through their eyes as if they are your own. You cannot do that with any of your other conjurations. I would take a guess that these are the reasons why your clones are not considered part of the limit.” Alexander stated. “This is all new and theoretical. My human would have absolutely loved to have studied you further.”

Collin rearranged himself in his bed and began meditating. He focused on each clone and what he wanted them to accomplish. He thought of the tower and what he had learned coming up through it. The first ten floors were a simple tutorial as he became familiar with the rules, challenges, and his new summoning class. After meeting Amergin and Tiny, he began working on his knowledge of the archer archetype as well as developing his affinity for the nature element. Collin saw the path to reaching stage five for the ranger class. He had witnessed Tiny reach that very feat and having a specialized archetype in each of his clones would be easy and beneficial. The issue was the demons. Collin needed to utilize the elements and mana to ensure they had the best chance at defeating the next few floors. Collin looked over Megan’s stats. She was in the Arcane Ranger class where she was capable of performing the archer and mage roles up to the fourth stage of mastery. Collin focused on the clone and enhanced it by adding the mage archetype. He increased the mastery of it using his own understanding of the class and how he would pursue it. He wandered through the paths and found an edging along the sides. It was as if the class wanted to separate out and form a new path. The walls of this path were starting to crumble in the pursuit of something that not only utilized the two roles but did so with master efficiency. Collin mentally dug through the wall until he felt the path open up. His body swelled with power as a new clone was formed taking up the number two spot. Using one of the blueprints he had, a new gearset was quickly created to fit the new class

Clone # 2 - Nature Gearset - Master Spell Ranger Level 1 - Stage 5

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Smiling, Collin proceeded with the others. He pushed their mastery forward applying magic and elemental understanding until a new path branched from each other's paths. Using his blueprint and crafting abilities he created new gear for each. He opened his eyes once he was finished. He summoned the five clones so he could take a proper look. They formed in front of him and a screen popped up.

Clone Conjuration Setup (Stage 5)

Base Stats Equal to Conjurer - Collin

Master Shadowmancer - Dark & Void

Infiltrator Gearset

+10 Intelligence

+10 Agility

Abilities:

Shadowstep

Shadow Duplication

Warp Strike

Dark Circle

Void Shuriken

Duel Wield

Master Spell Ranger - Nature

Oakvine Gearset

+10 Agility

+10 Health

Skills/ Abilities

Nature Circle

Forest Expansion

Poison Volley

Vine Trap

Piercing bolt

Hawkeye

Forgotten Templar - Air & Earth

Sand Dune Gearset

+10 Strength

+10 Defence

Skills/ Abilities

Flight

Sand Armor

Airblade

Earthwall

Air Barrier

Multi Blade

Mystic Skirmisher - Fire & Water

Steampunk Gearset

+10 Strength

+10 Health

Skills/ Abilities

Ice Blade

Lava Wave

Fire Fist

Steam Cloak

Waterstep

Fireproof

Grand Sage - Light & Holy

Transcendent Gearset

+10 Health

+10 Intelligence

Skills/ Abilities

Smite

Holy Circle

Energy Blast

Mass Heal

Cleansing Wave

Perfect Barrier

“Whoa!” Megan said, walking up to stare at the Shadowmancer and Spell Ranger.

One was covered all over in dark mist and shadows. The other was completely camouflaged. As it moved, its clothes and body changed to mimic its surroundings. Haley walked up and looked at the Grand Sage. Its robes were of white and silver with hints of gold. The robes had an aura of holy power about them. Multiple wands floated around the clone orbiting it ever so slightly. Collin stood up and inspected the Forgotten Templar and the Mystic Skirmisher. The Templar was cladded in thick armor made of earth and sand. It had many different blades sheathed to its hip and rear holsters. Particles of sand flowed all around the conjuration. Collin made a slashing motion manifesting his katana only for it to be stopped ten inches from the Templar’s face. A hand of sand held the edge of the blade holding it in place. Collin nodded and moved to the Skirmisher. Heat radiated from the conjuration. Its skin appeared to be constantly evaporating water around it. The Conjuration snapped its fingers and temperature instantly dropped causing it to be shrouded in an armor of snow and ice.

“Collin. Can you make us some new gear? Haley asked

“Yes please. I would very much like either of these.” Megan said.

“I would not go too overboard. Once we complete the challenges, there are two entire floors of gear for you all to choose from.” Amergin warned.

Collin inspected their current gear and realized they had practically zero stat boost and no extra skills or abilities associated. The dress Haley wore was literally a piece of cloth.. He looked through the assorted blueprints and found three gearsets each for them to decide on. He let them review the list and they each chose one for him to create.

“This should help you for now. Once we get out of here, we need to sit down and have a meeting. We have many options to choose from that are better than these.” Collin said before activating the crafting process

Shadow Huntress Gearset

Description: Black leather leggings, Black V-Neck Tunic, Black Leather Boots, Black Cloak, Black Leather Belt

+25 Dark/Void Damage

+30 Holy/ Light Resistance

+25 Agility

+20 Defense

Skills/ Abilities:

Fireproof

Shadow Cloak

Vertical Step

Holy Enchantress Gearset

Description: Flowing red and blue dress with brown leather belt and boots. Red Ribbon

+30 Holy/Light Damage

+25 Dark/Void Resistance

+20 Intelligence

+15 Health

Skills/ Abilities:

Water step

Light Screen

Temperature Control

“You both look incredible.” Collin said, trying to keep his jaw off the floor.

Megan was dressed in all black. The new clothes were designed to be skin tight in all the right areas while being loose enough to not impede on her movement abilities. Haley on other hand had a similar dress as before. It was form fitting around her chest and waist area with a flowing skirt going down just below her knees. She appeared to still have leggings and boots underneath for an added layer of protection.

Collin let himself stare a bit longer than he should have. Megan noticed and walked up to him. He had dropped back down on his bed and needed to get dressed.

“You can have us at any time Mr. Prince,but let’s get out of here first okay.” Megan said teasingly. She grabbed his hand and helped him stand. Collin conjured new clothes and slowly walked over to sit at the table with them. Megan stayed close by and helped him limp over.

Haley got up and started helping heal his remaining injuries. Collin was sore. His body ached and he hadn’t had a good sleep since he left home. He sat and let Haley poke and prod as she cast different healing and cleansing spells.

“I like your hair ribbon. Does it give any perks or is it just part of the set.” Collin asked. He was staring at her outfit as she danced around him.

“It’s what provides the ability, light screen.” Haley said, perking up with excitement.

Collin pulled up his system to read the description of the ability. Light screen was a type of barrier that light mana as the source. The conjurer could send a flat one inch thick transparent surface to absorb and reflect an energy based attack. The Conjurer had the option between small, medium, and large screens for escalating amounts of mana. The Conjurer could also increase the thickness which in turn would increase the effectiveness of the barrier. Collin had Haley step back about ten feet before he formed a fire and wind orb in his palm, making a small fireball. He threw it in her direction purposely aiming across her upper shoulder.

“Light Screen.” She squealed. A four by four foot screen appeared in front of her taking the fireball into it. The ability reminded Collin of a see through Mirror. The fireball sat in the flat surface for just a few seconds and then shot back in Collin’s direction. Collin stepped to the side and let the fireball miss and hit the wall on the other side of the room.

“That is an awesome ability.” Collin said approvingly.

“Collin, I know you are having a good time and are in full form with your flirtatious exploits, but we have ten more floors and I have not seen the sun in nearly eight years.” Trixie said

“Let’s get out of here then.” Collin said. They all had some food, stretched a bit and then stepped on the elevating platform..

…

Lesser demons are some of the most annoying monsters to ever roam the planet. Small imp- like creatures with little horns and spiked tails. They are the size of gnomes but without the magic. Fighting one itself is not a difficult endeavor for a seasoned adventurer. Unfortunately, They are never alone. A hundred lesser demons surrounded the teams as they fought back to back in a small circle at the middle of the floor. The moment they entered the forty-first floor, the demons attacked. Collin quickly reacted and pulled the girls into a wind barrier. The thin wall of air rushed around them pushing the imps back. Haley activated her light barrier giving them time to regroup and summon the conjurations. Megan summoned her shadow minions and sent them out into the fray. She began shooting arrow after arrow hitting each minion her shadows marked. Haley continued to hold the barrier with one hand while casting buff and healing spells with the wand she held in the other.

“Trixie, we need more room to work.” Collin mentally said.

“Teams two and five are ready. Teams three and four are almost there. Clones are activating now.” Trixie replied.

She was managing his mana consumption as well as the summons. Collin was already noticing the difference between Trixie versus himself and the others attempting to manage. She was pure perfection with the timing and proficiency of a god. Power swelled in him as he felt one of his clone's abilities activate. Waves of shadows burst from Collin blanketing the area in darkness. This caused the incoming demons to hesitate for just a half second before continuing the attack, but it was more than enough. The darkness subsided as the shadowmancer clone walked forward and dropped into the shadow of the nearest minion. Warp strikes began enveloping the area killing demon after demon. A wall of sand burst upward behind Collin and the Forgotten Templar slammed into the ground with its battleax. Team Five formed in the sand. The two Dreadnoughts shot forward while Apollo Atlas and Gerti stood in the circle protecting the group's flank. Hank and Bonnie formed around Haley just as a demon got to close. Bonnie's hammer slamming down on the imp just before Hank pierced it through with his sword. The remaining teams and clones formed and spread out to different parts of the room. This alleviated the incoming assault as the lesser demons were no longer focused on one target but on many groups. Collin heard a large roar and looked up to see the Archdemon form. The demon stood about ten feet and was nearly four feet wide with arms and legs the size of tree trunks. It had dragon-like wings and held a large whip in one hand and a Mace in the other. The archdemon let out another roar and the lesser demons reacted to it. Their attacks became less frantic and more uniform. They were starting to fight as a unit versus an individual.

“It’s controlling them. We have to kill it and then finish the horde off.” Collin mentally projected to everyone.

“How do we get to it?” Megan asked. She was trying her best to shoot an arrow at the demon but lesser demons kept jumping in the way to deflect the shot.

“Regroup.” Collin said. The teams slowly retreated back to the center still fighting the demons as they pushed forward. They all gathered inside the light barrier. Haley and the sage classes were holding it while the fighter and shield classes held off the horde.

“Get closer.” Collin mentally projected to his shadowmancer clone.

The conjuration warped through the horde delivering afflicting strikes and jumping through the shadows before reaching the Archdemon. Collin grabbed Hank and switch teleported with the clone. They appeared directly in front of the archdemon, both drawing their swords.

“Hank, focus on the big guy okay. I am here with you.’ Collin said. He could feel Hank tense up as he looked up at the menacing demon.

“You got this Hank. Help is on the way too.” Trixie said.

Collin leaped forward, slashing downward with his Katana. A wave of wind shot outward blowing back the lesser demons and creating an opening.

Dynamic Obelisk - Legendary Item

Forms: 2

Transformation Cost: 10 units of mana

Elements: Earth, Fire, Air, Water

Subelements: Lightning, Ice, Sand, Nature, Lava, Metal

Dagger Form - Ivory

Katana Form - Ebony

Skills:

Counter Strike

Double Strike

Paralyzing Slash

Defensive Swipe

Abilities:

+30% to Agility

+45% to Defence

+25% to Strength

+15% Chance to inflict bleed

Skills:

Crippling Blow

Whirlwind Slash

Crescent Strike

Elemental Wave

Abilities:

+45% to Strength

+25% to Defense

+15% to Agility

+30% Chance to inflict Poison, confusion, stun

Hank followed through the opening and slashed at the demon who blocked it with the long horns protruding from its skull. Hank formed a fireball and threw it in the demon's face before dropping downward and rolling between its legs. Collin followed up with a slash across the archdemons torso. The archdemon staggered backward from the blast but recovered quickly and slammed its mace down on the floor causing a shockwave that threw everything back. Collin stabbed his katana into the ground and held tightly fighting to stay upright. Hank used the wall behind the Demon to stay upright while he waited for the blast to subside. The horde of minions were scattered all over. Collin glanced back and saw his team were still fighting in the protective light barrier. The horde of demons were steadily decreasing as black smoke began to fill the entire floor. Collin rushed forward and met the archdemon head on. Their weapons clashed before an exchange of blows commenced. Collin danced around the demon deflecting and dodging attacks while trying to deliver a single cut to the very large figure in front of him. Hank jumped in the fray and the two combined their battle trances. Collin would deflect a mace strike and Hank would come around with a slash to the beast's torso. The two fought in perfect synchronization, fusing mana into each successful strike in an attempt to deliver an affliction. Collin felt eyes on him as the final lesser demon was slain. He felt a burst of air and Mystic Skirmisher passed by him to slash one of the archdemons arms off. The whip fell to the ground and Hank rushed forward stabbing the demon deep through the chest with his sword. The Archdemon screamed and Collin followed up with a Crescent Strike. The wave of pure energy and the sharpness of the blade were more than enough to completely decapitate the demon. It evaporated into a thick black smoke as the room reset itself.

Floors forty-two, forty-three, and forty-four were similar. The Demon Lord was actually able to speak. He commanded the Archdemons and Lesser demons in a much more efficient manner which made things a bit more complicated. The team had to resort to cutting the demon's heads off after a strike to the heart nearly decapitated Hank. The Demon Lords were smaller than the archdemons, but had an incredible amount of strength and agility. It took Collin and all five of his clones working together to kill just one of the demon lords. The team finished the forty-fourth floor and decided to take a small break. Collin summoned everyone out along with chairs and tables and started working on what he was assuming to be Dinner. There was no concept of time inside the tower so he had no idea if it was morning or night.

…

The team stepped up onto the platform and headed to the forty-fifth floor. There were two rooms that made up the area. Collin stepped forward and was greeted by a small goblin wearing a brown burlap sack. The goblin had no weapons and did not appear to want to attack them so Collin waited to see what he was going to do,

“Greetings Challengers. Congratulations on making it up the tower.” The small Goblin said.

“Thank you.” Collin said. “Who are you?”

“My name is Rognotturas Filnester Belforstred. You may call me Roger if you would like.” The Small Goblin said

“Are you a real Goblin or a conjuration from the tower?” Collin asked

“Oh I am very much real.” Roger said.

“Why are you here? How did you even get here?” Megan asked

“My tribe and I were fleeing from the east and I got lost. I managed to find this settlement and these people. I think you call this a school. The head guy here gave me a job. He said if I worked in the tower then he could not kill me.” Roger said

“What is your job here?” Haley asked

“Oh. Right. I am to be your guide through the trials of the seven deadly sins.” Roger said “It really is not that hard. They make me go through it anytime I need to get to the top.”

“Cool. What do we have to do first?” Collin asked, he was eager to be done.

“This floor is for Lust and Sloth. This one is very simple. Just walk from one room to the next room to the end where the rising platform is.” Roger said.

“What is the catch?” Megan asked

“No catch, however, maybe refrain from joining in would be the best advice. There are lots of tempting experiences waiting.” Roger said

“The next room is going to be tons of gorgeous people wanting to have sex with me isn't it?” Collin asked

“An orgy? This is a school for kids. Why would they do that to those poor hormonal saps?” Megan asked.

“Oh, the tower doesn’t do this for children. This challenge is specifically for Collin. Ladies, please go through the door to the left here. You can wait for him at the end of the forty-ninth floor.” Roger said

“Prince, please do not have sex with the conjurations pretending to be people.” Haley said. She ran up and gave Collin a hug before walking through the door to the left.

“Yeah, please don’t be that guy. You have three princesses who will do whatever you want once we get out of this.” Megan said, giving Collin a kiss on the cheek and following Haley through the door.

“Trixie, please do not let the triplets see anything that goes on.” Collin said.

“They have been sent with the girls.” Trixie said.

Collin walked forward into the room mentally preparing himself for sexual temptation and potentially a good night's sleep.

…

“That was not so bad.” Collin said, stepping on the platform.

The first room was about what he had expected. Money, power, beautiful men and women, and many other things came forward offering themselves up to him if only he just stayed in the room. The temptation to stay was there but Collin knew better and just kept walking. The next room was filled with fluffy beds and more beautiful people. Collin kept walking through even though he desperately wanted to sit down on one of the beds. Part of him knew that if he did, it would be over. The bed would consume him and he would never leave. Greed and Glutton were about what you would expect also. Tons of food, money, beautiful people, powerful items, weapons and gear all for Collin to take. On further examination of the items, Collin learned that they were all cursed. Touching or consuming them would cause you to go into an uncontrollable spiral of binge eating and treasure hoarding.

Collin kept walking through each room. He was thankful to not be fighting. It had been a long road to get to where he was. His power had jumped leaps and bounds in just a short time and he could not keep his mind from wandering while he proceeded forward. These rooms appeared to be set up to block communication with Trixie and the other matrices, however he could still feel them with him. Trixie’s presence inside his mind felt like the warmth of the sun after an eternity of rain. He felt at ease for once in many years. He was able to properly clear his thoughts and organize his feelings. He longed to be back home with his villagers. To be teaching younglings and arguing with elders about the day to day of the Goldenleaf. He missed his best friend, Ray. He was excited to bring Max back to him. Ray was the only other person who understood what Collin had been through losing Trixie. If Ray felt even half the pain that Collin had, it was still too much for any one person to ever need to endure. Collin was growing more worried about him being alone somewhere in the desert. He needed to get out and go find him. He needed to find all three so they could move forward with becoming Baron and vice Baron of the Xi Region. Collin finished the room with newfound determination to get out of the tower as soon as he possibly could so he could move forward with finding Ray, Mace, and Annie.

He met Roger at the end and they proceeded upward to the next floor. Envy was an actual conjuration, and she immediately tried to possess Collin as soon as he stepped foot off of the platform. Collin summoned his Clones and had them spread out to deal with her enemies. Envy was a humanoid demon about six feet tall. His skin was of a blue purplish hue that felt like leather to the touch. She was muscular, naked, and exuded power throughout her being. Her Aura brought on feelings of longing, desperation, and inadequacy. Collin took a dip breath and centered his mind before meeting her on the battlefield. Her demonic wings were stretched outward as she floated forward. Collin recognized that she was not using them in any manner that one would use for flying. Her ability to float mere feet off of the floor seemed to come from the aura power she possessed. Collin unsheathed Ebony katana and dashed forward to meet her blade. She held a two-handed staff with blades on each end. With her magic, she shrouded the blades in dark energy and also dashed forward to face Collin. The two met in the middle of the room and began exchanging blow after blow. Dark Energy nipped at Collin as he narrowly missed her swings. She was much faster than Collin and her strength was almost too overwhelming for him to stand toe to toe with. Collin manifested his voided katana in his free hand and entered a battle trance. Dual wielding had the added benefit of increasing his speed and attack power at the cost of decreased defensive abilities. They danced back and forth and even slightly in the air as each tried desperately to take the advantage. Collin had no idea what was going on around him as he fought with Envy. He could not afford to look as she was demanding the entirety of his concentration with her fighting style. He had to trust that Trixie was handling the conjurations and that the teams were doing their job. Speaking of Envy’s fighting style. She was certifiably insane. Her movements were quick and overwhelming. She never let up on the attack. She tried many times to grab at Collin in order to get him closer. Collin noticed that she was not just a conjuration meant to be the deadly sin of Envy. Everything she did was a representation of that sin. Her desperation to get to him, her obsessive movements, and possessive nature at trying to not only defeat Collin but to become him entirely. Collin recognized her slowly adapting and incorporating his fighting style into hers. She was envious of him and was showing the absolutely extremes of what that sin would do. Collin switched up his stance moving to a southpaw formation. He switched his ebony katana to its ivory dagger form and blocked her overhead strike before rolling to the left and slashing at her exposed wing. He clipped the soft part of the wing and Envy grunted in pain moving to strike him. With his right leg he pushed backward, missing a diagonal slash and catching himself on the wall. Using his vertical step ability, he lunged upward defying gravity and changing his plane from the horizon floor to that of the vertical wall. Envy lunged forward trying to stab him with one of her blades but missed. The blade planted itself deep into the wall and she was unable to move momentarily as she struggled to yank it free. Funneling mana into the lower part of his body, Collin pushed forward, spinning frontward slashing both of her wings off and he landed back on the horizontal floor in a crouched position. Envy screamed in agony as her wings fell to the floor. She yanked her staff out of the wall causing a crack to move upward to the ceiling. Collin moved forward blocking a vertical slash with his katana. He side-stepped to the right and pivoted the blow downward. With a kick he pushed her up against the wall and stabbed the ivory dagger into her left shoulder. Collin cast paralyzing slash, bleed, and disrupt senses. With the help of Trixie, he formed nature mana and cast a binding spell. Vines came up out of the ground wrapping around Envy and holding her in place. Collin cast haste and stop time, freezing time around him but allowing him to move at increased speed. He began slashing at Envy with his voided katana using its voided slash ability over and over and over. Hundreds of slashes formed in front of him frozen in the air in front of her. Collin turned and looked at the rest of the room, noticing that the other minions were all defeated, and his conjurations were all in the process of vanquishing into thin air. Collin walked away from the wall and did not look back. There was a large explosion as time resumed and hundreds of voided slashes struck Envy’s bleeding body. There was no scream, as Collin’s disrupt senses spell had caused Envy to go mute. A pop-up box appeared showing Collin that he had defeated her, and he moved forward to the next challenge.

The next two floors appeared to be combined as Collin rose upward into the area. The ceiling was double the height as the other rooms and there were two large demonic figures standing there waiting for him. Pride stood nearly nine foot tall with large tree trunk arms and legs. His body was a crimson red with black veins running up and down his body. He had wings similar to Envy and two large horns coming out of the top of his head. His body was shrouded in fire, and he held a large two handed great sword with his left hand. Wrath on the other hand was a bit smaller at around six feet tall. His skin was all black with blue veins running up and down his muscular but lean figure. He did not have any wings however his back was jagged with sharp spikes protruding outward and he had a pointed tail nearly twice the size as he was tall. The tail whipped back and forth as the two stared directly at Collin. Wrath had no weapons that Collin could see. He looked like a professional wrestler ready to lung forward and slash Collin to pieces with his own hands. Collin summoned his five teams and five clones. He could not hear but could very clearly sense Trixie giving orders to everyone in preparation for the next move. Collin stepped forward holding his Ivory Dagger in his left hand and his Voided Katana in his right. He manifested a small bracer on his left arm and lunged forward. The teams followed behind him breaking off as he fainted vertical slash towards Wrath before switching directions and lunging forward to try and catch Pride off guard. The dreadnoughts, Zephyr and Sigurd rushed forward behind the faint crashing into Wrath with their metallic bodies and forcing him to the other end of the room. Atlas and Apollo followed behind casting spells to hold him back as Collin dealt with one sin at a time. Pride reacted to the lunge with incredible speed and reaction timing. He was so much faster than Envy and Collin felt himself being yanked backward by Amergin narrowly missing a slash that Collin never saw coming from Pride’s sword. Pride stood there roaring outward as a horde of lesser demons appeared around him. His horde came crawling out of the ground and rushed forward to attack. Collin cast haste on himself and rushed forward to try and match Pride’s Speed. Collin Cast stop time, and nothing happened. His spell failed to penetrate through the thick skin of the demon. Collin tried casting slow, then disrupt sense followed by blight. Nothing happened.

“He is immune to status inflicting spells.” Trixie said in his mind.

Collin cursed and rushed forward again to try and take the advantage. Pride side stepped and punched Collin in the face sending him tumbling backward on the floor. Collin got up feeling a knot forming on his now swollen cheek.

“This guy can hit.” Collin muttered to himself as he pulled himself up.

He watched as Merlot and Midbar rushed forward to take him on. Merlot cast a holy barrier on himself as a sand barrier formed around Midbar, they began exchanging blows with Pride. Midbar would strike with his sand punch before ducking downward behind Merlot’s shield, The two kept perfect synchronization with one another as Jasper’s three summons came around to flank. Jasper appeared behind Pride and stabbed him in his left wing before being thrown backward against the wall. Collin looked to the rear and saw Cynthia begin her performance. Buffs immediately began boosting the other teams as they took on the two Sins. Collin looked to his left and saw Sigurd, Zephyr, Atlas, Apollo, Alexander, and even Regis holding their own against Wrath as he used his entire body to fight back. His tail whipped back and forth striking at the conjurations while his sharp claws slashed forward. Wrath’s actions reminded Collin of a berserker class but with a brawler battle style. He was almost animalistic as he utilized running not just on two legs but on all four. Collin looked back at Pride and rushed forward with his two katanas. He activated his air jump ability and shot upward over the battlefield. Collin activated his sand armor ability allowing the mana to flow around his skin and up through his hands into his blades. He spun forward into a flip bringing his sword down in a vertical slash. The first katana dug deep into Pride’s sword while the second katana managed to touch flesh. The sand followed shortly after causing a shockwave blowing everyone back. Collin held on to his swords as tightly as he could, waiting for the resonating force to settle. Pride dropped his sword and put both hands on the katana that was stuck into his right shoulder. Collin pulled his free katana back and slashed downward on the other side digging into Pride’s Other shoulder. Collin held on and rolled backward letting his feet leave the ground and throwing the demon across his body. The Demon crashed forward into the ground a few feet away from Collin. The other conjuration took advantage of this opening and rushed forward to punch, slash, stab and attack the demon as he lay there on the ground. There was a scream and Pride’s form faded away into nothing.

Collin remembered that they were not out of the fight yet. He got up as fast as he could and turned to see Wrath take a chunk out of Sigurd’s Armor. Collin activated another air jump using the height to close the distance faster than running would have. He unsheathed his wand having realized too late that he had dropped his Katana’s. Collin cast spell after spell as he fell down toward the thrashing demon.

“Haste, Slow, Disrupt Sense, Disrupt Sense, Blight, Bleed, Shit anything!” Collin yelled over and over as the spells simply bounced off of the demon with no effect.

Collin brought out a voided throwing star and threw it downward hoping to utilize the teleport ability. He threw another one up and watched it stick into the ceiling. The first star missed and landed behind Wrath’s left leg. Collin manifested his old hand and a half adventuring sword and imbued the metal with fire mana. He attempted another vertical slash landing hard on the floor but missing his mark. The Demon side stepped the attack and by some miracle, stepped on the throwing star sticking out of the floor. The Demon Yelped in pain before being teleported upward to the ceiling.

“He has no wings. Everyone, let him have it!” Collin yelled.

A series of ranged attacks shot upward toward the Demon. Arrows and spears pinned him to the ceiling while vines formed around his body holding him in place. Fire bolts, Ice shards, Rock blasts and Mana beams collided with the beast over and over as his screams rang out across the room. Collin used his wand to form an orb of each of his mastered elements. He noticed the small white orb that represented holy and light mana moved at a slower pace than the rest. He was thankful his wand was capable of at least bringing it outward for his use. He condensed the orbs together in a singular ball of yellow, green, blue, red, black, and white. He focused on the intent of his spell while aiming the wang upward. With a deep sigh he released the magic upward towards the ceiling.

You have learned a new spell.

Arcane Execution

Epic

Using the power of the elements, send a blast outward completely annihilating target

Damage: Total

Cooldown: 500 hours

A powerful and almost overwhelming blast shot upward and collided with the demon. Collin held on to his wand as tightly as he could. The blast expanded outward, engulfing the remaining lesser demons. Collin felt his conjurations vanquish themselves in order to escape the blast. His wand degenerated in his hands as the spell ended leaving nothing more of the conjured enemies.

Floor 45, 46 ,47, 48, 49 completed

Rewards 50 Gold, 100 Silver, 250 Bronze BTC Keys

+1 Sin Matrix - Lust

+1 Sin Matrix - Sloth

+1 Sin Matrix- Greed

+1 Sin Matrix - Glutton

+1 Sin Matrix - Envy

+1 Sin Matrix - Pride

+1 Sin Matrix Wrath

+1 The Desirer’s Armband - ( 1/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 The Idle Cloak - (2/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 Ring of Midas -( 3/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 Belt of the Gorger (4/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 The Green Eyed Monster’s Vest (5/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 The Egotistical Sunglasses (6/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

+1 Fury’s Gloves (7/7 Deadly Sin Gearset)

…

“This gearset is terrible.” Collin said as the platform brought him up to the fiftieth floor

“To someone so levelheaded as you, but to others, even one of these pieces would be a prized possession.” Roger said. “I particularly like that Ring of Midas you have. Everything you touch with the finger wearing the ring will turn into silver or gold. “

“The downside is you cannot take the ring off for seven days. One mess up in my sleep and everything is gold. I could wake up in my own golden tomb without even knowing what happened.” Collin said

“That is true, but if you manage to get to the end of that week, you would be the wealthiest man in all of the land.” Roger said.

Collin arrived to the final floor and noticed that the platform was enclosed in a small room around ten foot long and wide. There was a small fire lit and a door on the other side of the room.

“Well sir, I best be off. It was a pleasure guiding you through the deadly sins. I must be off.” Roger said.

The platform lowered and he was no longer in the room. Collin looked around a bit confused.

“Trixie, What is this?” Collin asked

“Preparation Room.” Trixie replied.

“Max is out there waiting for me ain't he?”

“Yup”

“Where are the girls?”

“They should be in an enclosed viewing room somewhere to the right once you walk in. I think. Max did not want them involved, but he did agree to let them watch.” Trixie said.

“Are the Triplets here?” Collin asked

“Yup”

“Yup”

“Yeah,” the three newborns said in his mind. Gerti’s mellow voice showing no enthusiasm at the upcoming task.

“Are there any special rules or parameters?” Collin asked.

“Well, you know how Max is. He has given you options.” Trixie said giggling a bit.

“What is funny?” Collin asked

“Oh nothing. I am just hearing background noise that you may not be hearing. The tower is making bets on this. I think it will also, possibly, maybe most definitely be getting broadcasted to everyone in the compound. Teaching moment and what not.” Trixie said

An overwhelming sense of embarrassment and sheer terror came over him for a brief moment.

“How long until I have to go into the room?” Collin asked. He was taking deep breaths to try and calm his nerves.

“Take your time sweetie. This is your challenge. Everyone is on your schedule.” Trixie said

Collin walked to his right and sat down with his back against the wall. He went through his different status windows and took stock of what he knew and what he had going forward.

“Trixie, what are Max’s options?”

Floor 50 - Final Challenge

Challenge Options:

Full Power - You are allowed all of your power, conjurations, skills, abilities and classes. Max the Dragonslayer Matrix will in turn also be allowed his entire arsenal of titles, skills, and abilities.

Partial Power - You are allowed 5 Teams of five (includes your 5 clone conjurations). Max will be limited to three titles of your choosing. His other weapons, gears, skills, and abilities are available for him to utilize at his discretion.

No Power - You will be allowed a single class, primary weapon, gear, and your natural affinities to air and fire. Max will be allowed his primary weapon, gear, and his natural affinities to fire, water, earth and air.

“Are there any differences in the rewards?” Collin asked

“The only rewards are Max’s matrix and access to the fifty-first and fifty-second floors. There you can spend the remaining battle coins, BTC Keys and make any final modification, crafting, and improvements before we depart. Most of those items will not be able to leave with us.” Trixie explained.

Collin went through his conjuration menu. He looked through his weapons and available armor and gear. His wand had been destroyed from the last battle. Using the Arcane Execution spell turned it into a mess of splinters. The cooldown being almost a month made it not possible for him to use it here. Collin did not think he would get an opening for that spell anyway. Collin thought about his past battles. Forty-nine floors of different challenges and having to learn different ways to tackle different problems. Collin had mastered the standard class archetypes and even managed to reach stage five and then six. He was able to summon conjurations and control the elements. He was still working on the holy and light mana manipulation, but he could feel himself getting closer to understanding it. He had Trixie back and for once in a very long time his mind and body felt at peace.

Collin was not sure of which option he should pick. He could go the easy route and face Max at his weakest. It would not be a walk in the park by any means, but no titles, additional skills and abilities would make it essentially a battle of skill and technique. On the other end of the spectrum, Collin could go all out and let his nearly three hundred conjurations go at him. They could possibly overwhelm him, or he could activate all of his titles and finish it in an instant. Stopping his title activations would be essential to even having a chance at winning. The middle option seemed the most appropriate. If Collin could choose three of Max’s weaker titles and send his five clones and nineteen most powerful summons. He was sure he could win. He would win and get as much gear as he could and then they could be off to save Ray. Collin sat there in silence for a long time thinking it over. Not fighting Max at his most powerful felt almost insulting. What would Ray think if he brought Max to him in such a way? How would Collin feel afterwards having taken the easy way out.

“Sir, Whatcha thinking about?” Hank asked.

Collin looked up to see Bonnie, Gerti, and Hank sitting there cross legged forming a circle around him. Bonnie had a small hammer in her hands that she was fiddling with. Gerti was drawing circles in the air with her wand and Hank just stared at Collin waiting for him to answer.

“Which option would you guys pick if you had to choose?” Collin asked

“Do I get to fight in one of them?” Hank asked

“Can I use my small hammer? No wait, I wanna use my big hammer..NO I want to use both!!” Bonnie said. Her voice became higher pitch and faster as she talked

“Mr. Max is really powerful though, guys. He killed a dragon once and has all those interesting title thingies.” Gerti said worriedly.

“Trixie?” Collin asked out loud

“Yes love?” Trixie replied

“I wanna talk to everyone.” Collin said.

He was not sure how to fit them all in the small room, but he hoped that Trixie understood and would make it work.

“Accessing the tower system, overriding physical restraints on this room, Carl, you lazy piece of… No… I do not care…Go suck on a rotting lemon, you son of a mother fu….Done!” Trixie said as if she was running out of breath.

The wall on the other side of the room lit up and Collin saw each and everyone one of his matrices form in front of it. One hundred and twenty-nine matrices lit up the wall in front of him. Hank, Gerti, and Bonnie ran over and marveled at the shining cubes of ever-changing colors. They sat down on the ground next to the wall and waited for Collin to speak. This took a few minutes as Collin sat there in complete awe over the beauty of them. He had seen each of them as he had obtained them, but this was his first time viewing them all at once. The wall was a rainbow of translucent colors. The reds and yellows blended in with the greens and blues. Shades of pink, purple and oranges met with gold, blue and silver. Black, white and gray outlined in an ever-changing pattern. When what felt like an eternity staring at them had passed. Collin finally spoke.

“Thank you for helping me get this far. I could not have achieved any of this without you all here to guide me forward. I want you all to know that I truly appreciate it and will do anything in my power to make it up to you. This class, Monarch of Matrices, I did not obtain on my own. This was you. Your hard work helped me obtain this power. I promise that I will not take it for granted. I will continue to prove that I am deserving of this power and of your loyalty. Now we have three options to choose from in order to get out of here. We could make this easy and be on our way, however I do not feel like that is the path we should take. Part of me thinks that the entire point of climbing this tower, besides getting Trixie and Max, was to also find you. Many of you were bonded to some of my closest and dearest friends growing up. They were people we lost either to the compound or to the war. We get a second chance at this. We get a chance to live the life that they were not able to. With that being said, what do you think of going all out? Taking the dragonslayer on at his full power. Well it wouldn’t be his full power. He can’t reach that without Ray but taking on the full power of the dragonslayer matrix and all of his many annoyingly powerful titles. I think we can do it. I think we have the power. I want to take him on at his best. I know that everyone is watching, and I want to show a good example to those that will follow after we are gone. I want to make a statement to the rest of the towers and to the rest of Gridarnia. I want to showcase all of you and your wonderful faces. The faces of our lost friends. I want them to know that we are still here and that we are bringing a change to this country. We will aim for the very end and when we reach the top we will make the world a place where Matrices, humans, elves, dwarves and all other magical creatures can live together in harmony. What do you think? Do yall wanna try?”

There was a series of flashing lights as he watched the matrices talk to one another. The triplets looked back and forth between the wall and each other as they listened in on the conversation. Collin waited silently for them to finish the deliberation. He knew what they were doing. They were analyzing strengths, weaknesses, stats and strategies. Past battles and every tid bit of knowledge the tower was willing, and in the case of Trixie and her overriding abilities, unwilling to relinquish. He actually felt his head begin to hurt a little as the information was sent through him to the others for processing. He could feel Tixie being just as active as the others.The wall went silent, and Hank turned to look at Collin.

“We wanna do it.” Hank said with wide eyes and a grin from ear to ear.

“Do we have a chance?” Collin asked

“Not even a slight one, but we wanna do it anyway!” Bonnie said. Her small hammer disappeared, and the larger one formed in front of her.

“Sir, before we do this. We should craft a new wand for you.” Atlas said from the wall.

“I think I have the perfect blueprint for this.” Apollo added.

A screen popped up in front of Collin for a possible new weapon. Collin read over the description and began working on the ritual circle. He used the wall he had been leaning against as the canvas and started drawing out the diagram within the circle. Collin conjured the necessary crafting materials, the splintered remains of The Masters Legendary Wand, The Dynamic Obelisk and his collapsible adventuring bow. He shoved the Ivory Dagger into the center of the wall and chanted the necessary phrase to activate the ritual.

Ineffable Obelisk of the Ethereal - Exotic Item

Forms: 4

Transformation Cost: 15 units of mana

Elements: Earth, Fire, Air, Water, Dark/Void, Light/Holy

Subelements: Lightning, Ice, Sand, Nature, Lava, Metal

Dagger Form - Ivory

Katana Form - Ebony

Wand Form - Jade

Bow Form - Iris

Skills:

Mirror Strike

Silent Stab

Furry Blast

Energy Slash

Abilities:

+50% to Agility

+50% to Defense

+30% to Strength

+20% Chance to inflict bleed

Skills:

Parry

Uppercut strike

Perfect Cut

Execution

Abilities:

+45% to Strength

+25% to Defense

+15% to Agility

-30% Mana Cost

Spells:

All mastered spells

Select to view new spells

Abilities:

+50% Mana Pool

-35% Mana Cost

+25% Agility

+20% Spell Effect

Skills:

Elemental Shot

Crippling bolt

Multi Arrow

Piercing Blast

Abilities:

+50% Perception

+65% Agility

+15% Penetration

-25% mana cost to conjured arrows

Ineffable Obelisk of the Ethereal

Wand Form - Jade

Mastery 0%

Disable - 0%

Range - 30 feet

Nullify effects of an ability, skill, spell, class or title

Duration: 60 Seconds

Cost: 40 Mana

Cooldown: none

Elemental String -0%

Mana Cost: 3 units of mana per linear foot

Enemies that come in contact receive elemental damage and afflictions for a period of time.

Create a thin string of elemental energy. Manipulate to create webs, rope, and other string like objects.

Elements: All Available

Mana Block - 0%

Range - 30 feet

Mana Cost: 100 units of mana

Prevent Target from Recovery Mana

Duration: 120 Seconds

Cooldown: 5 Minutes

Max Barrier - 0%

Max # of Targets: 5

Mana Cost - 50 per target

Duration - 1,000 damage

Cast a powerful bubble around the target protecting them from physical, mental, and magical attacks.

Cooldown: None

Revive -10%

Range - 30 feet

Bring target back from the death’s grasp after receiving a killing blow. Target must have died within 2 minutes of spell activation

Mana Cost : 50 units of Mana

Cooldown: 24 hours

Collin looked over the new weapon and smiled. The Revive spell was the only one he had not completed. He was happy to see that it had not been replaced by another spell without him mastering it. He looked up at the Triplets and nodded

“Alright, Let’s finish our preparations everyone.” Collin said. The room began buzzing with activity as the matrices went through all last minute repairs, upgrades, stage increases and strategy planning.

…

The door opened and Collin walked out into the fiftieth floor of the tower. The door behind him shut and the small room they had exited, disappeared. Collin watched as the room transformed into a deserted wasteland. Areas of elemental energy formed all around them. The clouds grew dark. A stream of water flowed to Collin’s left. Mounds of dirt and sand enveloped to his right and grass grew in the small patch behind him. The walls around them formed into that of a coliseum. People sat in bleachers around him screaming and waving left and right. Collin recognized the set up. The room was mimicking the fighting arena directly below them and half a mile to the east. Collin found Haley and Megan sitting amongst the crowd. They were actually in the room but in a viewing, box suspended to the wall. Collin looked around in search of his five former students. He found them in the stands directly behind him. Dimitri, Sasha, and Yugi sat next to each other with Jacie and Akota sitting in the seats in front of them. Their magic had grown in the few months since he had dropped them off. Collin focused more on each one of them and immediately felt the connection with their newly bonded matrices. Sasha and Jacie’s connection to their matrices appeared to be the strongest of the five. Sasha’s matrix was named Niki while Jacie’s was named Carmen. The purple and yellow auras were showing much more predominant to Collin’s senses. Yugi was still working on his relationship with his matrix, Joseph? No, Joey. The black and gray aura surrounding him as shadows danced in and out of his form. Akota and Cusco were a bit further along also. Collin could feel Akota’s body absorbing the ambient mana around him using it to increase his muscles. He was like a tightly coiled spring ready to react at any given moment. Collin wondered what they had been through to have such a predominant change in such a short time. The least of the five appeared to be Dimitri. He and his new Matrix, Courtney, were almost at a complete disconnect. Something must have happened between them over the first month. It wasn’t just apparent by the tiny red threat of mana surrounding him. Dimitri Physically looked depressed and down. He looked like he had been fighting some sort of internal struggle and was losing. This worried Collin tremendously.

“Trixie, what is going on between Dimitri and Courtney?” Collin thought to himself

“Dimitri isn’t taking to the connection very well. He got sick shortly after she was installed. He just left the injury wing a few days ago. He’s known Courtney all of seventy-four hours at this point.” Trixie answered.

“Is he going to be, okay?” Collin asked

“Yes. He should make a full recovery. Him being a bit older and as high up in magical understanding and power level caused a rare strain of mana poisoning to occur. I really mean rare too. One in One hundred thousand pledges experience this sort of reaction to being bonded. He will have a rough first year but should be able to catch up to the others fairly quickly.” Trixie said

Collin sighed at the new information. He was glad that Dimitri was doing better. He made a mental note to review this new strain and to reevaluate the training curriculum. If being too high of a level caused you to get sick, they needed to change the training. Collin smiled and waved at the five before turning around and looked towards his opponent.

“Thank you for stopping me.” Max said, “I let my guard down and he got me.”

A river of lava and fire was forming to the far end of the arena. Standing in front was Max geared out in his battle attire. The Golden Lion sword sheathed around his belt and the wolf shield planted firmly on his back. An array of knives, daggers, and throwing stars were fixed to his torso.

“No worries, I thank you for not killing all of my conjurations.” Collin replied

“Have you decided between the options provided?” Max asked, “I am sure you already know that like with Trixie, I cannot hold back in this duel.”

“No worries, buddy. I fully intend to make you my bitch before this is over. Ray will absolutely hate it when I show up to save his tail. Did you know he went and got himself captured. He is unconscious in the Arkadian Desert being tortured by a bunch of damn Jackals.” Collin said

“He does tend to get himself in trouble. His grandfather had a similar aptitude for it. I hear he has a bonded familiar now? A small dog with void powers? Max asked

“Yup, He went and bonded with a thousand-year-old fuzzball with the ability to bark, teleport and make friends with literally anyone under four feet tall. Children, gnomes, dwarves. There is a rumor that Mace once made friends with an undead prince of the skeleton army. He sometimes has pants too.” Collin rambled

“It sounds like we need to get out of here before Ray does something stupid.” Max said, “What option have you selected?”

“We have decided to take you in full force. My Conjurations want another chance at the dragonslayer.” Collin said, holding his arms out.

Five Clones came forth from his shadow and formed to his left and right. More shadows then formed from them and flowed to the edge of the wall facing. Collin’s conjurations appeared in a show of immense power. The small army stood in formation waiting for the time to start. Tanks were positioned in the front with Fighters and Rogues positioned directly behind them. The mage and healer classes formed behind them with the archer class in the rear. The support classes took up the entire left side of the formation while the Armorer classes took up the right. Regis and Alexander formed directly behind Collin waving at the crowd. There were murmurs everywhere as people talked about how one of the conjurations looked like the King. Hank, Gerti, and Bonnie formed in front of Collin and his clones. Hank walked up with his sword in hand ready to take the dragonslayer on himself. Max smiled at the challenge and unsheathed his sword and shield. There was a static noise, and someone began speaking.

“Welcome everyone!” Collin turned to see the Grand Supreme Edward standing around a pulpit talking into what appeared to be a sound magnifying crystal.

“Pledges, we have a great privilege today. Vice Lord Collin of Region XI has managed to make it to the final floor of our prestigious battle tower. Everyone is to watch and learn from this. I want detailed reports completed by each of you by the end of the week. We will discuss each and every aspect of this fight so be sure to pay attention.” The Grand Supreme Said

“Leave it to Edward to turn a fight into a teaching experience.” Collin muttered to himself “Trixie, can you block them out. I am okay with them watching but I do not need to see or hear them.”

“Working on it now. Complete darkness in 3….2….1” Trixie said, and the walls turned to black before taking a background of the area similar to how all the other floors were before.

‘Alright Max, let's get this over with.” Collin said.

There was complete silence. Collin could feel the tension in the air as they took their time reading each other. Collin knew he would have only a millisecond to try and block the title activations. He had his affliction specialist and support classes on standby waiting for that moment. With a nod from Max, Collin rushed forward to make the first strike. He summoned his ebony katana passing Hank in a flash and struck downward in a vertical slash. Max blocked it away with his shield and lunged forward with his sword. Collin pivoted to Max’s shield side, changing his weapon to its ivory dagger form and stabbing it downward into Collin’s knee. He held on tight as Max slammed his shield outward pushing Collin back. The dagger pulled free leaving a number of afflictions in its place. Collin switched to his Jade wand and mentally cast his elemental string spell. He spun the wand around Max casting a thin line of elemental energy as he was thrust backward. Collin ended the spell and landed with a backwards roll. A pop up window formed showing the results of his attempt.

Collin Casts Bleed

* Target Max is now bleeding. Health reduces 5% per second

Collin Casts Blight

* Target Max has received Necrosis

* Target Max has Resisted Necrosis

Collin Cast Elemental String

* Fire, Ice, and Holy Damage inflicted on Target Max

* Target Max is immune to Fire

* Target Max is Immune to Ice

* Target Max has suffered +7 Holy Damage

Collin picked himself up, switching back to his katana form and noticed Max who was occupied trying to untangle himself from the elemental string. The golden portion was glowing as it delivered a slow stream of holy damage. Gerti cast slow on Max. Bonnie jumped upward in the air and slammed her hammer down, missing Max but hitting the shield. Hank came sliding around the left side slashing Max around his midsection before running away.

“Supports, Tanks, Fighters!” Collin heard Trixie yell in his head.

She was giving orders to each of the classes in the far back of Collin’s mind. Collin heard the Bards, Singers, and Dancers begin their power ballad. The drums and string instruments created a pounding tempo as the singers chanted the incantations. Merlot ran past Collin followed by the other tank classes. They kept their distance around Max, allowing the triplets to continue their strike and flee tactic. The Tanks turned and brought their shields down at an angle allowing the fighter classes to run up them. The tanks thrust their shields just as the fighters jumped, catapulting them up into the air one by one. Collin watched as they brought swords, hammers, axes, and maces downward onto Max. They all collided with the shield as Max raised it up just in time to block the attack. Collin watched the shield take the incoming hits, absorbing the blows one by one. The shield’s special abilities were common knowledge for Collin as he was the one who bestowed the treasured weapon to Ray their last year at the Academy. He watched in anticipation as two small eyes on the shield began to glow.

Wolf Bite Shield

Legendary

+50 Defense

+50 Strength

Skills:

Scrappy Defense- Incoming attacks are absorbed and converted into mana.

Counter Howl - Use the Mana absorbed to fire a continuous blast outward knocking Targets away.

Blast Duration: 15 Seconds

Cooldown: 2 Minutes

“Get them ready for the howl!” Collin mentally yelled to Trixie.

He ran forward manifesting his voided katana in his other hand. Max activated the Counter Howl ability just as Collin reached Merlot. The Tanks slammed their shields down blocking the blast. Collin hid himself behind Merlot as the waves of energy shot each of his fighters upward into the air. Collin counted in his mind waiting for the blast to reach its cooldown.

“Go!” Trixie Yelled.

Collin climbed over Merlot and sent a wave of voided energy towards Max. Max used the shield to block the wave but was pushed backward by the attack. Max swung his sword but Collin parried the strike with his Ebony and began exchanging blow after blow trying his best to enter his battle trance. Max would not allow him to find his rhythm even with the power ballad reaching the climax of the song. Max dodged his next slash and threw his shield at Collin hoping to distract him. Collin kicked the shield with his left foot and looked around it just in time to see Max activate one of his Lion Swords abilities.

Lion’s Mane Sword

Legendary

+45 Strength

+35 Slashing damage

Skills:

Lion’s Roar - Slash the air to create explosive air pockets. Air pockets Explode

The Pride’s Final Strike - Strike a Target delivering damage equal to the duration of the battle. Ratio 1 second: 1 damage

Collin was expecting the Pride’s Final Strike ability, however Max chose to use the Lion’s Roar. Pockets of air formed around his slash floating just in front of Collin’s face. There was a pop and Collin felt himself being pulled back as the explosions went off. He looked back to see Amergin holding on to him as they retreated behind the line. Walls formed up to encircle Max. Archer and mage class conjurations stood at the top and began raining arrows and spells down onto the dragonslayer.

“Keep pressing him. We need him to get mad enough to activate his titles. He hasn’t even begun to show us his full strength.” Collin thought as he joined his conjurations on the wall.

Collin switched to his Jade wand and began casting spells along with the other mages.

Collin cast Disrupt Senses

* Target Max ignores spell

Collin cast Disrupt Senses

* Target Max ignores spell

Collin cast Disrupt Senses

* Target Max ignores spell

Collin casts Confusion

* Target Max ignores spell

Collin casts Blight

* Target Max has received Necrosis

Collin casts Slow

* Target Max agility stat is decreased

Collin casts Bleed

* Target Max is bleeding -5% Health/ Second

“Finally!” Collin mentally yelled as his spells took effect. Max’s magical defenses were finally starting to diminish.

Collin sent his clones in to take Max on. The Shadowmancer zoomed forward and jumped directly into Max’s Shadow. The Forgotten Templar and Mystic Skirmisher rushed forward and collided into Max. The Grand Sage and Master Spell Ranger stood next to Collin and continued to assist as Collin’s other three clones pushed the fight to the next stage.

“Enough!” Max yelled before dropping his sword and shield and punching his fist straight into the ground..

His Armor changed to dark black dragon scales and a helmet formed over his face. He pulled his hand out of the ground and was holding a large two handed sword accented in crimson. His aura blasted outward, throwing everyone back against the wall. Collin felt the room tremble as Max finally activated his titles. With a spell and a prayer Collin cast one last spell.

Target Max has activated title abilities

Title Master - All active and passive title abilities unlocked

Dragonslayer - +750% Resistance to Fire and Air based skills and abilities, attacks, +500% Increase in Fire and Air based skills, abilities, and attacks

The Great Mouse Detective +25% Perception, +50% Resistance to Trap Base Attacks

Ace Pilot - +25% Mana conversion, +15% to Air based attacks

Earth Titan +50% Resistance to incoming Earth based skills, +50% to All Outgoing Earth Related Skills

Lion’s Keeper +45 Strength, +15% Agility, +25 Intelligence

Wolf’s Protector - +30% Defense, +15% Agility, +45% Perception

…(+145 Additional Titles) (Click to Expand List)

Collin casts Disable

* Target Max Title - Title Master is Disabled

* Disable duration: 60 seconds

Disable caused the Title Master ability to become inactive. This meant that Max was only able to receive one of his titles' effects. The Dragonslayer title was more than likely the choice as Max had activated it first. This meant that he still had nearly eight times resistance to air and fire while his air and fire attacks and abilities were five times as powerful. Collin used his air jump skill to jump off of the wall towards Max who had stood full height to face him. Collin switched back to his duel wielding katanas and started slashing the air as he fell towards Max. Void, Ice, Sand and Holy waves shot forward pelting the areas around him. Max stood there unflinching, the blasts cut, sliced and bounced off of him as Collin’s fall neared closer. Collin rolled into a forward double slash and Max blocked it with the flat side of his sword. Collin looked up to see Max’s piercing gaze.

“This won’t be enough.” Max said as their blades pushed against each other.

“We will see.” Collin said before looking down. “You forgot about my shadow.”

Max’s Eyes went wide in horror before he also looked down to stare at what Collin was directing him. Collin’s shadow was overlapping with Max’s. The forms of energy were moving from Collin to Max.

“My Shadowmancer has taken your shadow.” Collin said

He was ignoring the small icon at the periphery of his vision; the prompts he was sure were good news could wait.

While the rest of the team was fighting Max, the shadowmancer clone who had jumped into his shadow was working to completely take over that part of him. Slowly the shadowmancer attacked Max’s defenses from a completely different realm where Max was unable to reach. The evidence of this as a scene of battle played out on the ground below them. Collin’s shadow was fighting Max’s and completely obliterating him with slashes and stabs all over. Max’s shadow fell on the immaginary plane and Collin’s shadow jumped over to become Max’s shadow.

Max pushed back hard and separated himself from Collin by leaping backward. Hank ran past Collin in a blur holding his sword with both hands at his side. Hank imbued his mana into the blade and thrusted it forward in a powerful jab. Max caught the blade with his free hand holding Hank locked in place. Max swung his sword downward but was stopped mid motion. Shadows came up from his feet and wrapped themselves tightly around his legs, torso, arms and neck. Max felt the shadows sink deep into his skin as they twisted tightly around him. The two handed greatsword he was holding fell to the floor.

“Fifteen seconds.” Trixie said before starting a countdown in everyone’s mind.

Collin was already rushing forward with Bonnie and his clones on his tail. Collin switched to Ivory and shoved the dagger into Max’s chest

“Ten, Nine, Eight..”

The Tanks rushed forward and slammed their shields into the ground to encase the dragonslayer in a small area. The Support team were at the climax of one of the best guitar solo’s Collin had ever heard in his life. The Mage and affliction specialists were in constant spellcasting using the dagger as an entry point to bleed Max’s mana and health.

“Six, Five, Four…”

Bonnie ran up and started hitting Max in his side with her small hammer as hard and as fast as she could. Collin forced more elemental mana into the blade.

“I really need you to stay down right now buddy.” Collin said as Max’s struggles finally slowed.

“Three, two, one. Disable effects have ended.” Trixie said.

Max opened his mouth to speak, but was stopped by a right cross from Collin. Max fell on to his back and Collin followed after letting go of the dagger and striking outward with his fists. Bonnie and hank joined in the barrage punching, kicking, stomping and in Bonnie’s case, hammering away at the bound dragonslayer.

A large screen popped up in front of Collin making him look up from his attacks.

Dragon Slayer “Max” has been defeated. Floor Fifty completed.

Congratulations! You have beaten the Battle Tower of Compound Gamma

Rewards:

+1 Million Battle Coins (BC), +250 Gold BTC Keys, +500 Silver BTC Keys, +750 Bronze BTC Keys

+ 1 Dragonslayer Matrix “Max”, +1 Chest of the Dragonslayer (Locked) (Ray), +1 Dragon Egg (Locked) (Ray), +1 Ring “Gamma”

Floors 51 & 52 of Battle Tower Gamma are now unlocked.

Collin looked up away from the screen to see the walls of black fade clear up to show the stadium of seats again. The crowd was on their feet screaming and cheering. Max motioned to his conjurations and they all stood there in awe. Collin looked back over at his fellow students who were absolutely loosing their minds. Even Dimitri was in much better spirits. He was high fiving Yugi and running up and down the stands screaming “That’s my Vice Lord! That’s my teacher! Bow down to the Goldenleaf Village Mother F…Ouch! Sasha! Why did you..” Collin smiled and nodded at Edward before waving his hand and turning the screen back to darkness.

“That was wonderful!” Megan said, running up and giving him a hug. Haley Came from the other side and grabbed hold of Collins midwaist. They squeezed him tightly before letting go.

“How do you feel?” Haley asked

“I feel good. I am glad its over. Thank you everyone!” Collin said, looking around at the matrices. They all nodded and waved before fading back into the tower.

“Let’s go shopping!” Megan said excitedly.

“Yes!” Haley added

The three, still embraced, walked over to the elevating platform and rose upward to the top of the tower.