Collin sat there on the floor still staring at a spot that he had just been. It was close to fifteen minutes before he was able to move. The Matrices had not said anything or if they had, he had not heard them. He saw himself. He thought he had teleported. His goal was to teleport or to at least be fast enough to get there. He had sent mana to every crevice of his body. Fire, Air and Void all over hoping it would be enough. His three magic crystals were puddles of sand before him. He finally returned to his senses and stood up.
“This tower is doing some strange things.” Collin finally said. Notifications began popping up
He took a deep breath. “Tonya, can you organize the windows and let me view them?”
Tenth Floor Challenge Completed
Reward:
+750 BC, +1 Druid Nature Matrix “Amergin”,+1 Druid ,+1 Battle Tower Matrix, +8 minor health potion, +8 minor mana potion, Bear Hide x 5 Bear meat x 10
*Battle Tower Store unlocked*
Battle Tower Inventory System
Items
Battle Coins (BC) Total: 1,131
Adventure Bag “ Collin”
Black Chest “ Collin”
Minor Health Potion x 29
Minor Mana Potion x 31
Antidote x 5
Nature Matrix “Amergin” x 1
Battle Tower Matrix x 1
Crafting:
Orc assorted material x 10
Goblin assorted material x 30
Bear Hide x 5
Bear meat x 10
Direwolf hide x 2
Eagle Feather X 300
Giant Rat Fang x 1
Giant Snake Skin x 10
Nature Core x 5
Nature Core x 5
Spider Silk x 50
Team (Conjurations)
Red - Assassin Class - Level 2
Blue - Marksman Class Level 3
Olive - Healer Class Level 3
Merlot - Guard Class Level 2
Indigo - Cleric Class Level 2
Tiny - Ranger Class Level 13
No Name - Archer Class Level 1
No Name - Druid Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
*Battle Tower Store Unlocked*
*New Abilities Unlocked (Battle Matrix Required)*
“I do not understand. What is this Battle Tower Matrix?” Collin said.
“Mr. Collin, It looks like we obtained Amergin’s Matrix. We should let him explain.” Tiny said.
“Do you know something that you are not telling me? Tiny?” Collin asked.
“I am unable to answer. There are plans in place and I am restricted to only a small bit of information” Tiny said. “ I can tell you that Amergin can and will explain more.”
Collin wanted to protest but he decided to follow along.
No Named Assigned - Druid Class Level 1
Matrix installed (0/1)
You have 1 Nature Matrix “Ambergin”
Activate Matrix Install Process? Yes or No
Collin clicked yes and waited.
“Hello Prince Collin.” Ambergin said. “I have to admit. I was surprised how our fight ended.”
“I was too. I am not sure what I did.” Collin replied.
“I have an hunch, but let us wait for the Battler Tower Matrix to tell us what actually happened.” Ambergin stated.
“Why do I feel like I am being led through this tower like some sort of puppet on a string?: Collin asked. “What is going on?”
“That is an interesting way to put it. Everyone is being led by some sort of string if you really think about it. You, Me, Lord Ray, King Liam. We are all part of some bigger story being played out.”
“What is going on Amergin? Why did I just fight and unlock the Matrix of King Liam’s best friend? That is who you are right. You were part of his adventuring group. The most powerful Nature Matrix to ever come into being. Why are you not in the capitol with Regis?” Collin asked. He had known who Amergin was the moment Tonya said his name. Lughan was part of the King’s original team. When he died of old age, his Matrix was sent to the Kingdom to assist Regis, King Liam’s Matrix. All of the old team were supposed to be in the capitol.
“You are a very observant young man. I think you got that from your mother. I was always surprised by her genius.” Amergin said. “Are you aware of the rules associated with the King and his potential heirs?”
“Yeah, Grandpa..I mean King Liam told me about it a few months ago. He is only allowed to help me two times. He was only allowed to spend a small bit of time with me. He is not allowed to directly show favoritism. He is not allowed to speak on my behalf and essentially I am unable to have a relationship with my last living relative other than my half brother Kono.”
“Wonderful, that shortens the amount of explanation I have to do. Did the King mention a task that he needed you and Ray ready for?”
“He mentioned that there was a task that needed to be prepared for. He did not tell us what that task was or when to be prepared.” Collin stated
“I am limited on what I can explain. The King has asked myself and others to prepare you for what is to come. This tower has been modified to challenge and train you in methods you have never before experienced. I see you are already utilizing the conjuring ability and it seems you are proficient in utilizing mana. You need to become much stronger,” Amergin stated.
“Why Is the King doing this?” Collin asked.
“The King wants you to succeed, though he is forbidden to show or directly help. We are the loophole he has chosen to use. Now we really do not have much time so please give my conjuration a name and let's move forward.” Amergin said.
Collin thought a bit on the color scheme and decided on a cider like color scheme; the Druid's clothes changed to a series of brown and oranges before disappearing.
“That is going to look lovely. Now please select the Battle Tower Matrix”
Collin went back to his inventory and selected the Matrix.
Install Battle Tower Matrix? Yes or No.
He selected the yes icon and pain immediately shot through his body causing him to collapse to the floor. He screamed in agony as it felt like his insides were shifting from one side to the other. A deep burning pain radiated on his right shoulder. When the pain finally subsided, Collin was drenched in sweat and struggling to catch his breath.
“Are you okay sweetie?” Tonya asked. Concern showed in her voice.
“Take your time there sir.” Tiny said.
“I am sorry young prince. We were unaware that would happen. This Matrix is designed to take the place of your primary until we find Trixie. It does make sense that it would hurt as it is completely reprogramming your current setup. You should now be able to access a new level system and your secondary Matrix. Tonya please bring up the next set of windows.” Amergin stated.
Name: Collin Chintzy
Age: 29
Weight: 200 lbs
Height 6’ 0”
Citizenship: Affirmative
Military Status
Active / Special Assignment
Military Rank: Captain I
Adventurer Status: Active
Adventurer Rank:
Master - Teacher
Health: 100%
Health Rank: A
Health Recovery: 20%/ Min
Mana: 100%
Mana Rank: A
Mana Recovery: 20%/ Min
Class:
Tri Elemental Mage - level 5 (override)
Summoner - Level 2
Ninja - Level 5 (Override) - Rogue level 1
Sorcerer - Level 5 (Override) - Mage Level 1
Weapon Proficiency:
Swords, bow and arrow, daggers, throwing knives and stars
Magic Affinities
Water: E Earth: E
Fire : S Air : S
Void/ Dark: S (override)
Holy/ Light: E
Lightning: E
Ice: E Plant: E
Lava: E Sand: E
Metal: E
Matrix - 3/4 (Override)
Dungeon Core (Tonya) (Gold)
Primary Matrix (Trixie) (Blue) (Temporary Override)
Battle Tower Matrix (Red) - Install complete. (Primary Matrix Temporary Override)
Secondary Matrix - Captain (Grey) -Primary Matrix Required (unlocked) - Active
Titles:
Vice Baron of Gridarnia Region XI (72%) Vice Lord of The Goldenleaf Village, Prince #2 of Gridarnia, Friend of Gnome
Bond (0/1)
Please Perform a bond ritual in order to obtain bonded familiar. Stats and information displayed here
Skills:
1. Elemental Smash Level 5
2. Mana Manipulation level 5
3. Elemental Manipulation level 5
4. Mana Communication level 4
5. Others - See Battle Tower Matrix
6. Others - See Secondary Matrix
Battle Tower Inventory System
Items
Battle Coins (BC) Total: 1,131
Adventure Bag “ Collin”
Black Chest “ Collin”
Minor Health Potion x 29
Minor Mana Potion x 31
Antidote x 5
Crafting:
Orc assorted material x 10
Goblin assorted material x 30
Bear Hide x 5
Bear meat x 10
Direwolf hide x 2
Eagle Feather X 300
Giant Rat Fang x 1
Giant Snake Skin x 10
Nature Core x 5
Rock Core x 5
Spider Silk x 50
Team (Conjurations)
No Name - Archer Class Level 1
Red - Assassin Class - Level 2
Blue - Marksman Class Level 3
Olive - Healer Class Level 3
Merlot - Guard Class Level 2
Indigo - Cleric Class Level 2
Tiny M- Ranger Class Level 13
Amergin M - Druid Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
No Name - Ranger Class Level 1
*Battle Tower Store Unlocked*
*New Abilities Unlocked*
*Equipment Sets Unlocked*
Battle Tower Matrix
Collin Chintzy Level 10
Strength 10
Defense 10
Health 10
Agility 10
Intelligence 10
Health 100% 20%/ min
Mana 100% 20%/ min
Abilities/ Skills:
NEW - Conjuration System
* Weapon set unassigned
* Armor set unassigned
NEW - Flame Punch
NEW - Air Barrier
NEW - Clone Construct
NEW - Construct Teleportation
*Equipment Sets Unlocked*
1. Adventurer Set
2. Voided Shadow Set
3. Blank
4. Blank
5. Blank
6. Blank
7. Blank
8. Blank
Secondary Matrix - Captain
Troops: 11/20
Total Class Mastery: 14%
* Tank 0%
* Healer 0%
* Fighter 0%
* Support 0%
* Archer 0%
* Mage 50%
* Rogue 50%
* Support 0%
Battle Tower Floors Complete 10
Nature - 0% *Error*
Water - 0%
Earth - 0%
Fire - 0%
Air - 0%
Holy / Light 0%
Void / Dark 0%
Matrix
Tiny - Nature
Amergin - Nature
*Conjuration Equipment Sets Unlocked*
Click for more details
Collin immediately noticed that the skills and abilities normally locked from him not having Trixie were now overridden and available. He also noticed the captain’s Matrix and a slew of new objectives he evidently needed to complete. Collin clicked on his new skills.
NEW - Flame Punch - copied from Elemental Manipulation - deal a fire elemental strike
NEW - Air Barrier - copied from Elemental Manipulation - create rotating Barrier of Air
NEW - Conjuration System - Level 1 Click for more details
NEW - Clone Construct Level 1- Create a temporary clone of self or others.
* Clone Duration - 10 Minutes
NEW -Construct Teleportation Level 1- Teleport Construct to specified area
* Max Radius: 100 ft
“Can someone explain these two skills?” Collin asked
“When you beat me earlier, you must have unlocked and used this clone construct skill. You made a copy of yourself. You then teleported your Construct to stop me.” Amergin explained.
“But I saw myself in both bodies. How is that possible?” Collin asked.
“I think because it was your first time, you let your mind split between both selves. We will work on that.” Tonya said. “Us Dungeon Cores are able to split ourselves to complete multiple tasks at once. You eventually get used to it.”
“Amergin, why did it not give me credit for beating the nature section?”
“You haven’t actually completed the Nature section. I was not supposed to be the final boss. We will need to go down to the first floor and restart if we are to move forward.” Amergin stated.
“That is crap. ” Collin said.
“With your conjurations, you should be able to get back up here in half the time. I recommend we open and do something with your newly acquired constructs before we go down.” Amergin said.
Collin opened the conjurations menu. “Amergin, Do you want me to do something specific or am I free to do what I want?
“You are free to do what you want. I am here to teach, train, and answer questions, however whether we get to the top or not is one hundred percent on you. There will be no hand holding. There will be no changes to the tower moving forward. You will either succeed or fail on your own devices.
“Good. I appreciate the help but I want to prove I can master this on my own. Tonya bring up the Battle Tower Store please.” Collin said.
Collin took stock of everyone's gear and realized that they were in need of new everything. He spent all but thirty BC buying everyone new weapons, armor, and their own set of potions. He noticed that he could equip sets by class but did not currently have enough to go that route. He instead equipped each individually with what they needed. He was so preoccupied that he forgot to buy him anything.
“We should be able to get better gear later sir.” Tiny said.
Collin went back to the conjurations menu and started naming and reassigning classes. He had Tonya make him a chart so he could visually see his options. Each role in a team begins as that specific archetype . A tank is a tank and with each progression they become better at their role of being a tank. At Stage three, you are given the option to add a secondary class. You begin experimenting with other roles. The combination is what helps you reach Stage four. Experience in multiple classes makes you better. For example, A druid was once a high level ranger who decided they needed to learn more about the healing class. Collin became excited at the prospect of unlocking more and more classes. This had officially become a real life version of an old table top game he used to play as a kid.
Archetype
TANK
FIGHTER
HEALER
ARCHER
MAGE
ROGUE
Stage 1
Tank
Fighter
Healer
Archer
Mage
Rogue
Stage 2
Guard
Warrior
Cleric
Marksman
Wizard
Assassin
Stage 3
Knight
Champion
Priest
Ranger
Sorcerer
Ninja
Conjurations
Changes Made
No Name - F Ranger Class Level 1
Amber - Ranger Level 1, Fighter Level 1
No Name - M Ranger Class Level 1
Bronze - Ranger Level 1, Mage Level 1
No Name - F Ranger Class Level 1
Ruby - Ranger Level 1, Tank Level 1
No Name - M Archer Class Level 1
Sky - Archer Level 1
“There. We now have someone with experience in each archetype.” Collin said
“We need to also explain your secondary matrix.” Tiny said.
“Yeah it hasn’t done anything for me since the King installed it. Was it supposed to? Am I supposed to feel any different?” Collin asked.
“The King has not activated them yet, which is why you and Lord Ray have not noticed anything. The Battle Tower Matrix has temporarily overridden the original commands so that we can train. All of this is temporary and severely limited until we obtain Trixie. She should be up there waiting.”
“Hold up. Trixie knows about all of this? Collin said.
“Yes. The Grand Supreme was asked by Draconis to play along. He could have given Trixie and Max to you when you asked, but as you said earlier. We are puppets on a string. The King has his reasons for what has been done. Amergin said.
“So how do we begin?” Collin finally asked. His annoyance of being used was showing
“When you began at the academy, you focused primarily on the rogue archetype, correct?” Amergin asked.
“Everyone who attends the compound starts out in the mage archetype. It is the whole point of it after all. Learning to use mana and not be poisoned. When I learned I had an affinity for void mana on top of fire and air mana, I pursued the rogue class as my secondary.” Collin said.
“Do you remember what Stage you reached? Tiny asked.
“Stage three on Both classes. I dueled Ninja and Sorcerer. After my Matrix was removed, I had to relearn mana and affinity control. That is why it always showed a Bi or Tri Elemental Mage on my information screen. It looks like my Ninja, sorcerer and summoner skills are unlocked now.” Collin said
“Why did you not go to a Stage four class?” Amergin asked.
“The war began. All Stage threes were sent to basic training. They needed more glider operators than rogues so Ray and I went and learned to fly.” Collin answered. “Later some of the higher ups found out I was in the ninja class and they started sending me to do certain jobs but I never had the opportunity to progress to Stage four.”
“Interesting. So our goal will be for you to progress to Stage three in every archetype. You will also need to master every element.” Amergin stated.
Collin thought about it for a bit. He was not sure what the King’s end game was. He never met anyone who had mastered all archetypes. He wasn’t quite sure how he was going to manage it. Amergin began explaining in more detail as to what would be occurring. First he would learn about nature, earth and air elements. They would move on to water, and fire before ending with the holy, light, void, and dark elements leading up to level forty where Collin would finally get to see Trixie. That part excited him more than anything. After that he would have ten very difficult and challenging floors before finally getting to Max who was patiently waiting to kick his ass on floor fifty.
“We will start with the archer class and the nature element.” Amergin stated.
Collin pulled out his collapsible bow from his bag. He attached the upper and lower limbs to a central piece where he would grip it and put the string on it. He pulled out his quiver and realized there were no arrows. He had forgotten to pack them.
“Uhh, I am out of arrows.” Collin said.
“That is fine. We need to learn this anyway. The conjuring ability is much more versatile than just summoning allies.” Amergin said. Collin pulled up the ability in front of him. He clicked on more details for the “Conjuration System”.
Conjuration System - Summoner Level 2
Skills / Ability:
Construct Conjuration - Create constructs to assist you. (humanoid Only)
* can be stored in inventory. (20 Max)
* Constructs can be equipped with weapons, clothes, and other items
* can be trained, leveled and upgraded.
Matter Manipulation - Create, destroy, or change matter.
* Matter must be in your possession
NEW - Clone Construct - Create a temporary clone of self or others.
* Clone Duration - 10 Minutes
NEW -Construct Teleportation - Teleport Construct to specified area
* Max Radius 100 ft
“Alright. Don’t tell me. I need to figure this out.” Collin said.
He reviewed the skills again. What kind of matter is it referring to? Like any matter? Is it like crafting? Ray has an object manipulation skill but this says matter. Maybe there are limits that I do not have? Collin went back to his inventory and saw that he had a bunch of crafting material. He took the eagle feather and goblin bones out and placed them in a pile. He closed his eyes trying to picture the exact length, width and edge that he wanted. He started sending a steady stream of mana into the pile. He thought he heard a clicking sound and stopped. Opening his eyes he saw a stack of about One hundred Goblin bone arrows with eagle feather fletchings.
Very Good!” Amergin said.
“Well Done Sir” Tiny added.
Collin arrived on the first floor and walked into the room. The room went dark for a moment and then instead of there being one giant rat like there was the first time, there were over a hundred coming into the room from a hole in the wall.
“Sky, Blue, Amergin and Tiny.” Collin said, manifesting his team of various archer class constructs.
Collin was not sure if it was because he was using a new class or the goblin made arrows but he missed most of his shots. The rats began to charge after the initial shock and they had to spread out. Collin embedded an arrow with fire mana shooting a group before jumping up into the nearest tree. The group of rats blew up in an explosion. He hung there and watched the other archer classes and noticed immediately the difference between each of them. Tiny and Amergin were effortlessly placing arrows between the rats eyes, killing them instantly. Blue hit every single target, however he did not instantly kill them like the ranger and druid class did. He was having to use two and three shots to kill a single rat. Sky was struggling just like Collin was.It was taking three to four shots to make the kill. This went on until the very last rat ran into the room. Collin took aim and added a bit of air mana to the shaft before letting the string loose.
First Floor Challenge Complete
Rewards:
500 Battle Coin (BC) , 10 Minor Health Potion, 500 Giant Rat fangs (crafting) 500 assorted Rat bones, 500 giant Rat fur
New Skill - Explosive Arrow - Archer
New Skill - Wind Piercer - Archer
Collin went to the next floor and found a small fence encircling a house. He and team walked to it and found a group of chickens inside the small house. They heard a growling sound and turned to see a group of about fifteen dire wolves walking up to the fence. Tonya said the objective was to protect the chickens. Collin and Sky climbed to the roof and began shooting. He had to stop part way through to conjure more arrows, which is when he noticed that Sky was getting better. He was now missing every other shot and a few of his hits were starting to be killshots. Collin began shooting again and noticed that he was slowly figuring it out also. Wanting to add new skills, he embedded some void mana into his arrow and shot it at a nearby wolf. The wolf was struck and disappeared. Collin shot another wolf with the void mana and it also disappeared. He wasn’t sure what the skill was going to say but he kept switching it up between fire, void, and air. He understood intent and tried to press that into the arrow along with the mana One fire arrow caused an explosion, another caught the ground on fire in a three foot by three foot area. An air infused mana managed to shoot to the other side of the room and hit a wolf in the neck, a void arrow hit the ground and shadows spread out and froze the wolves in their place. This made it easy pickings for the other archers.
Collin kept this up until the fourth floor. They had managed to kill hundreds of rats, wolves, and giant spiders. Collin and Sky evolved to Marksman class and Blue became a Ranger. Collin crafted a dagger from one of the giant spider’s pincers and gave it to him as a congratulations. Collin thought he saw Blue smile but maybe it was the weird lighting. The fourth floor contained another scenario with thirty Archers, Three Elite Rangers, and a combination of fighters, tanks, and a nature Mage. Collin noticed that he was allowed to summon another team of constructs for this challenge. He brought forth Merlot, Amber, Bronze, Ruby and Indigo. Merlot, Ruby, and Amber charged forward while Bronze, Sky and Indigo stayed slightly behind, providing range attacks and support to the front line. Collin sent an explosive arrow at the wall and flung himself through the hole shortly after the explosion. Tiny and Amergin followed.
This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.
“Young Prince, we need to work on the nature element.” Amergin said. He was following behind and holding his bow out in preparation to attack.
“How do I do that exactly? Nature is not one of my affinities.” Collin asked.
“You are up Tiny.” Amergin said. He summoned his giant bear and it burst forth mauling at everything in sight.
“Right. Sorry. I have been carried away. This is so much fun.” Tiny said.”Sir, Do you still have those nature cores from the last time we were on the fifth floor?”
Collin nodded. “Those are crafting items aren't they?”
“They are indeed. They can also be absorbed now that you have the Battle Matrix. Please do so now.” Tiny said.
Collin ducked behind a large crate barely missing an arrow. He pulled out a single core and looked at it.
Nature Core
The internal core removed from a Giant Tree Golem.
Absorb to gain access to the Nature affinity.
Increase Nature affinity + 10%
Additional cores increase by +5%
Absorb:? Yes or No
Collin selected yes and felt the energy from within the core rush into his body. He began smelling tree bark and wet dew on the grass. He opened his eyes and could see the rushing amount of ambient mana everywhere. He saw Bronze cast a magic bolt. A purple light shot from his hand and hit a nearby archer knocking it over. Collin noted that the color was much more detailed and had a hint of white and blue mixed with bits of red.
“Whoa, this is cool.” Collin said.
He drew his bow and applied some nature mana into the shaft before releasing and watching the arrow fly through the air and hit the nearest archer. Vines spread out of the arrow and bounded the archer. He shot five more arrows causing the same effect to five more enemies. He immediately felt a recoil from the consumption and hit a knee.
“Take it easy young prince. You only have a small bit of nature mana currently.” Amergin mentally told him.
Collin took two more cores out and drained them. He had another sensation as his mana increased ten more percentage points. He drained one more just to get to an even quarter and then proceeded forward with more arrows.
There was a creaking sound and Merlot burst through the gates pushing the enemy tank through and across the inner space of the fortress. Soon the nature mage was the only one left. Collin moved forward and mentally told everyone to provide supporting fire. Indigo created a barrier around the group as the archers began directing their fire towards the last enemy. Merlot slammed his shield down and activated his taunt ability. The mage ignored the effects and began attacking Collin. Collin dodged to the left and shot an explosive arrow towards the mage. He brought up a tree root to block the explosion. The mage began shooting wooden spikes from his staff and Collin rolled to the right barely missing them. He came up and shot three consecutive arrows at the mage. He blocked them again. Arrows were not working at all. He sent a mental command to Bronze who began sending magic bolt after magic bolt. Apparently that was the only skill he knew. The mage created a barrier around himself that began absorbing the hits.
“I have got to get closer to him.” Collin said.
He sent some air mana throughout his body and tried to run up the side of the fortress to get to the top of the railing. The mage sent more spikes in his direction. Collin dropped his bow and equipped two daggers. He began deflecting the spikes as fast as he could. He was only about twenty feet away from the mage when he reached the top. He sent more mana through his body and activated his clone construct ability. He tried to teleport it to the other side of the mage but the mage threw up a barrier stopping the construct. The clone bounced off of the barrier and fell to the bottom. The clone began firing arrows at the mage while Collin ran around the outside railing trying to close the distance. The mage sent another tree root in his direction. Collin rolled and touched the ground with an orb of nature mana. He focused on the wood platform and what he intended to happen. The boards exploded outward sending a cascading attack of growing tree limbs towards the mage. Collin jumped on the branch and crossed the newly formed bridge. He threw one of his mana infused daggers and jumped over the barrier to get behind the mage he manifested his sword and swung it as hard as he could.. The mage fell over in a clump of robes. Its faceless head rolling on the ground below.
Fourth Floor Challenge Complete
Rewards:
500 Battle Coin (BC) , 10 Minor Health Potion, 10 Minor Mana Potion, Nature Mana Core x3,
+No Name M - Mage class Level 1
New Skill - Vine Arrow - Archer
New Skill - Forest Expansion - Nature
Collin let everything fade away before moving forward. He was tired. He wasn’t quite sure how long it had been and he was hungry.
“Tonya, how long has it been since we started?” Collin asked.
“About a day and a half. “ Tonya replied.
“I am starving. Do we get to eat here?” Collin asked.
“You should have some food in your inventory sir. There are also health and mana potions that you have been receiving.” Tiny said.
Collin pulled up his inventory and realized that there was an entire different section that he was unaware of. It had different fruits, vegetables, proteins, and an assortment of bread. Collin sat at the edge of the platform and began eating. He had a small wedge of cheese, a loaf of bread and some beef strips he cooked with his fire mana. Tiny and Amergin sat next to him.
“Do you guys want some?” he asked. Pulling more out of his inventory and handing it to them. They looked at him and dumbfounded.
“Sir, We have never been offered food before. Well I suppose the better statement would be that we have never been able to eat.” Tiny said.
He picked up a piece of cheese and took a bite. Amergin sat down and picked up a loaf of bread, stared at it and then took a bite. They seemed to enjoy it.
“Do you guys actually have taste buds?” Collin asked.
“It is a peculiar feeling, but yes I believe we are able to taste it.” Amergin said.
“Yes. This is an odd feeling, but it is nice being here in the physical world. I always wanted to have a meal with Timothy.” Tiny said.
Collin smiled and let them continue to eat. He pulled up his system and checked to see what more he could do before moving forward to the fifth floor.
Battle Tower Inventory System
Items
Battle Coins (BC) Total: 2,030
Adventure Bag “ Collin”
Black Chest “ Collin”
Minor Health Potion x 79
Minor Mana Potion x 81
Antidote x 5
Crafting:
Orc assorted material x 10
Goblin assorted material x 30
Bear Hide x 1
Bear Meat x 5
Direwolf hide x 27
Eagle Feather X 200
Giant Rat Fang x 501
Giant Snake Skin x 10
Nature Core x 7
Rock Core x 5
Spider Silk x 150
Team (Conjurations)
Amber F- Ranger Level 5, Fighter Level 3
Bronze M- Ranger Level 5, Mage Level 2
Ruby F- Ranger Level 5, Tank Level 3
Sky F- Marksman Level 5
Red M- Assassin Class - Level 6
Blue M- Marksman Class Level 8
Olive F- Healer Class Level 5
Merlot M- Guard Class Level 2
Indigo F- Cleric Class Level 2
Tiny M- Ranger Class Level 15
Amergin M - Druid Class Level 5
No Name M - Mage class Level 1
*Battle Tower Store Locked*
*New Abilities Unlocked*
“Can I absorb these other cores?” Collin asked. He pulled out the remaining nature and a set of earth cores and placed them in a pile.
“Yes, however we do not have an earth matrix to teach you so it may be a bit of a challenge until we procure one.” Amergin said.
Collin started with the Nature elements. Each time he absorbed one he could feel his sense getting sharper. He waited a few minutes to let things adjust before absorbing the rock cores. He felt his skin turning harder. He had a slow and heaviness feeling for a few minutes before it subsided.
Battle Tower Matrix
Collin Chintzy Level 14
Strength 15
Defense 10
Health 10
Agility 12
Intelligence 15
Health 100% 20%/ min
Mana 100% 20%/ min
Abilities/ Skills:
Conjuration System
Flame Punch
Air Barrier
Clone Construct Level 1
Construct Teleportation Level 1
New - Vine Dagger - Archer
New - Vine Arrow - Archer
New - Forest Expansion
New - Explosive Arrow
New - Wind Piercer
Archetype Level Progression
Tank - None
Fighter - None
Healer - None
Archer - Marksman Level 5
Mage - Sorcerer Level 5
Rogue - Ninja Level 5
Support - Summoner - Level 3
Secondary Matrix - Captain
Troops: 12/25
Total Class Mastery: 17%
* Tank 0%
* Healer 0%
* Fighter 0%
* Support 0%
* Archer 17%
* Mage 50%
* Rogue 50%
* Support 5%
Battle Tower Floors Complete 10
Nature - 40%
Water - 0%
Earth - 20%
Fire - 0%
Air - 0%
Holy / Light 0%
Void / Dark 0%
Matrix
Tiny - Nature
Amergin - Nature
“Tiny, We are going to need to do something with your construct. Do you have any thoughts?” Collin asked.
“Would it be okay to follow Timothy’s dream sir? He really wanted to become a Master Ranger.” Tiny said.
“Do you not have a dream of your own?” Collin asked.
“No sir, I think most matrices have a similar wish. We would like to continue where our humans fell short. We spent so much time with them, planning and encouraging them. We were part of each other so their dreams are also our dreams.” Tiny said.
“Is this true Amergin?” Collin asked.
“For those who died too early, yes. I would say that this is a common wish.” Amergin said “For the rest, I would say you would need to ask them yourself. I am just happy to be adventuring again, sharing my wisdom and teaching others.” Amergin said
Collin made a mental note to find more matrices and help them however he could. He knew Trixie would help him too. Just as soon as he found her. He moved forward with his adjustments before getting up and stepping on the platform
Conjurations
Changes Made
No Name M - Mage class Level 1
Orange - M Mage Class level 1
Olive F- Healer Class Level 5
Olive F- Cleric Class Level 1
Collin finished off the five nature elementals pretty quickly and moved on to the next floor. The Giant snake was much easier with the help of Merlot and the others. He made sure to replenish his arrows, throwing knives, and stars from the battle shop before moving forward. He was good on potions so he chose to hold off on anything else until he reached the tenth floor. He moved up to the sixth floor fully prepared to take on the tree sentinel. It proved to be much more difficult than before as there were eight of them. He managed to collect all eight nature cores, which he immediately absorbed before moving on to the eighth floor.
Collin moved upward with his team into the room where grass and trees surrounded the outskirts. There was even a small stream of water going through one side of the room to the other. There perched at the top of one of the trees were five giant eagles. Their wingspan was twice as long as Collin was tall. They were just as tall as him in fact. He knocked his arrow and let one fly in the eagle's direction. It missed. Collin tried again and again but was unable to hit any of the eagles. A barrier of wind seemed to form around them causing any projectiles to be diverted away. The larger of the eagles screeched outward before jumping off of its perch. It came diving towards the group. Collin equipped a dagger and jumped up over the eagle landing on its back. He stabbed downward and came crashing into the ground. He got up and turned to see the others rushing the remaining eagles who were swooping down from the trees. Collin brought his bow out and tried to focus on one of the eagles. He steadied himself by running earth mana through his body. Air mana went into the arrow and nature mana went into the bow. He released the arrow and watched as it shot through the air through the barrier and into one of the eagles. The others were finished fairly quickly and they moved forward to the next floor.
“I think I am almost there.” Collin said. He could feel himself getting closer to the next Stage. His shots were becoming more accurate and he was having less difficulty drawing from his quiver. He reached the next floor to see thirty ogres standing across the room ready to charge at him.. He checked his screen and saw that he could only have his normal five man team.
“These are as large as the two Ray and Mace fought.” Collin said. He remembered watching the fight from the conference room in the village. Each of the orcs carried a large club in one hand. They were each around six feet tall and three feet wide.
“Merlot, Ruby, Indigo, and Amergin.” Collin said. The two tanks rushed forward with their swords and shields ready. Amergin summoned his familiar bear and sent it forward. Inigo and Amergin stayed behind to provide support and healing. Collin summoned his clone construct and had him equip a sword and join the bear. He liked how his clone and the bear did not count towards the team of five requirements.
“Everyone loves a loophole.” Collin said to himself. He conjured more arrows for his quiver and began shooting towards the group of orcs.
Merlot and Ruby activated their taunt ability which caused the orcs to charge towards them. The bear ran forward and jumped on the nearest orc mauling its face off. It then proceeded forward attacking another one. Two orcs reached the tanks and began attacking them. They each guarded with their shield before horizontally slicing at the torso of the two. Indigo activated a barrier and while Amergin sent a bit of Nature mana into the ground causing a root system from the nearby trees to come out and trip up the ground behind the two. Collin started to send mana arrow after mana arrow towards the horde. His clone danced around the battlefield slashing and hacking through every orc he could see. Collin sent nature mana into the ground and formed a tree that raised him upward thirty feet into the air. From there he had a better vantage point to shoot from. He watched Amergin’s bear throw itself at a group crushing them into the ground. Collin took advantage and shot the orcs. Amergin sent a wave of nature mana outward causing small flowers to grow around the bear. It lay there a bit in the healing circle before getting up and returning to the fight. The remaining five orcs regrouped around each other and began fighting together. They managed to throw Ruby to the side where she hit a tree before disappearing into dust. Collin winced at the pain. This was the first time he had lost a construct. He was not sure if she was gone or not. With no one to guard the right flank, an orc rushed forward past Merlot and grabbed Indigo. Amergin took his dagger and ran forward stabbing the orc in the side. Collin sent an arrow past, piercing the orc in between the eyes. The orc dropped indigo before falling over and disappearing. Collin’s clone rushed forward with an uppercut to the orc's face. The orc’s head exploded and Collin thought he heard the Clone yell Fire punch!. The bear came from behind biting into the rear most orc. Merlot came down with a slash.
Ninth Floor Complete
Rewards:
3,500 Battle Coin (BC) , 10 Minor Health Potion, 10 Minor Mana Potion, 15 Nature Core , 30 Orc Clubs, 60 Orc assorted materials,
Collin immediately pulled his status screen up to check on Ruby.
Ruby F- Ranger Level 9, Tank Level 5
Status: Vanquished
Cooldown: 23:45:04
“She is okay Collin.” Amergin said. Collin threw each of his constructs a mana and health potion before sitting down.
“What does the cooldown mean?” Collin asked.
“You will be able to summon her in twenty-four hours. She has to rest a bit and regroup the mana that was lost but she can be reconjured after the time is up.” Amergin explained.
Collin tried to access her to see if he could at least increase her to Stage two guard. He was unable to do anything.
“I guess that is the penalty for losing her. I cannot upgrade her until she is back.” Collin said to himself.
He opened up his stat screen to check on everyone else. He decided to absorb the fifteen nature cores he had just received. There was a click in his mind as he reached a hundred percent. Three cores showed back up in his inventory. He had a weird feeling but was unable to process it just yet. He also began to upgrade everyone who was able to go to the next Stage. Including himself.
Battle Tower Inventory System
Items
Battle Coins (BC) Total: 10,650
Adventure Bag “ Collin”
Black Chest “ Collin”
Minor Health Potion x 112
Minor Mana Potion x 105
Antidote x 5
Orc Clubs x 30
Crafting:
Orc assorted material x 10
Goblin assorted material x 30
Bear Hide x 1
Bear Meat x 5
Direwolf hide x 27
Eagle Feather X 500
Giant Rat Fang x 501
Giant Snake Skin x 45
Nature Core x 3
Spider Silk x 150
Team (Conjurations)
Amber F - Ranger Level 8, Fighter Level 5
Bronze M - Ranger Level 10, Mage Level 5
Ruby F - Ranger Level 10, Tank Level 5
Sky F - Marksman Level 8
Red M- Assassin Class - Level 10
Blue M- Marksman Class Level 10
Olive F- Cleric Class Level 8
Merlot M- Guard Class Level 10
Indigo F- Cleric Class Level 8
Tiny M- Ranger Class Level 20
Amergin M - Druid Class Level 10
Orange m - Mage Class level 3
*Battle Tower Store Locked*
*New Abilities Unlocked*
Battle Tower Matrix
Collin Chintzy Level 20
Strength 15
Defense 15
Health 15
Agility 20
Intelligence 15
Health 100% 20%/ min
Mana 100% 20%/ min
Abilities/ Skills:
Conjuration System 2
Flame Punch
Air Barrier
Clone Construct 2
Construct Teleportation 2
Vine Dagger - Archer
Vine Arrow - Archer
Forest Expansion
Explosive Arrow
Wind Piercer
*Equipment Sets Unlocked*
1. Adventurer Set
2. Voided Shadow Set
3. Blank
4. Blank
5. Blank
6. Blank
7. Blank
8. Blank
Archetype Level Progression
Tank - None
Fighter - None
Healer - None
Archer - Marksman Level 10
Mage - Sorcerer Level 5
Rogue - Ninja Level 5
Support - Summoner Level 3
Secondary Matrix - Captain
Troops: 12/30
Total Class Mastery: 21%
* Tank 0%
* Healer 0%
* Fighter 0%
* Support 0%
* Archer 45%
* Mage 50%
* Rogue 50%
* Support 10%
Battle Tower Floors Complete 10
Nature - 100%
Water - 0%
Earth - 20%
Fire - 0%
Air - 0%
Holy / Light 0%
Void / Dark 0%
Matrix
Tiny - Nature
Amergin - Nature
*Conjuration Equipment Sets Unlocked*
Click for more details
Conjurations
Changes Made
Bronze M- Ranger Level 10, Mage Level 5
Bronze M- Ranger Level 10, Wizard Class Level 1
Amber F- Ranger Level 8, Fighter Level 5
Amber F- Ranger Level 8, Warrior Class Level 1
Merlot M- Guard Class Level 10
Merlot M- Knight Class Level 1, Healer Class Level 1
Red M- Assassin Class Level 10
Red M- Ninja Class Level 1, Mage Class Level 1
Blue M- Marksman Class Level 10
Blue M- Ranger Class Level 1, Fighter Class Level 1
Collin M - Marksman Level 10
Collin M - Ranger Class Level 1
Tiny M- Ranger Class Level 20
Tiny M- Elite Ranger Class Level l
“Before we go to the last floor. Can we talk about these classes a bit more?” Collin asked.
“Of course. What would you like to discuss?” Amergin stated.
“I think I understand the progression of the first three Stages. An Archer can shoot a bow but requires multiple attempts to hit a target much less kill it. Each level up progresses your proficiency in that skill. Sky got better with her shots as she practiced which makes sense. At Marksman, your skill is enough to guarantee you hit the target, however your accuracy is still not quite to the point that you can instantly kill your target with one arrow.” Collin said.
“I agree with that statement.” Amergin stated. Tiny confirmed also.
“What am I to expect from Ranger?” Collin asked. “This all feels very linear to me. I already knew how to shoot a bow and arrow before.”
“I think I see where you are getting at sir. I was thinking of this earlier when comparing the training here to the training we did when we were younger. The battle Tower is a great tool and is efficient in reaching higher Stages, however it does lack a sort of real world perspective that we may be missing.” Tiny said
“Let’s think of the first three Stages from their original perspective for a bit. An archer is simply a person who picks up and shoots a bow and arrow. The King has a whole unit of Archers when going into battle. Their jobs are very simply shooting the arrow in the direction of the enemy. Any person with a reasonable amount of strength can accomplish this. The marksman however, has perfected his ability to shoot. He has put in the extra time and effort. He takes in consideration the wind, distance, ambient temperatures and other important factors to make sure his arrow is not wasted. A fully trained marksman is someone prized by the Kingdom.” Amergin explained.
“Now military service is only a span of a few years. What does a Marksman do after his time is up? He is a one trick pony with nothing else more to offer the King. Most go home and learn to farm or lose themselves in their drink. Many become professional hunters and adventurers. Those jobs do require you to do more than just shoot an arrow though right? Learning to track an animal, set up traps, handle knives, daggers and swords are all standard hunting and adventuring skills that one would want to begin learning especially if they live in this part of the country wouldn’t you think?” Tiny said.
“Is there a hunter class?” Collin asked
“Everything can be considered a class young prince. What we are seeing is not the absolute law in class archetypes. This was originally created for children between the ages of eleven and nineteen. It was decided to make the progression as simple as possible in order not to confuse them. Once the limiters are removed from the Matrices, everything becomes available. Each of the classes actually become much more detailed. There are paths within paths that are able to be selected. It all depends on the person, their thoughts, beliefs, wants, and needs. The Matrix was designed to become a reflection of that person’s inner self.” Amergin explained.
“So Ranger is one possibility for Stage three. There are others I could have selected? Why are they not an option now?” Collin asked
“Smarter minds before us chose the order and options. A Ranger in the real world is capable of crossing the land with no assistance. They can hunt, track, trap, shoot, fight with a sword and dagger. They are masters in all fields associated with the wilderness. It is safe to assume that other compounds may have selected a different class to sit in this position. A ranger would not necessarily be the best pick for the desert or the snowy tundra.” Tiny said.
“Sweetie, think about the battle island. You and Ray fought The late Duke and Vice Duke. Arthur was in a Brawler class. Wristbane was a Duelist.. Think of that for a bit.`` Tonya said.
Collin did think about that. In order to become a Stage four Brawler class, Arthur chose to forgo weapons entirely. He used his hands, feet, elbows, knees but no weapons. He would have had to have reached either a class similar to a boxer or grappler and then began working on a tank related class in order to achieve that result. Similar with Wristbane Montague, He fought with a very specific type of sword. He would have reached a Stage three champion but with his speciality being limited to dueling class swords such as rapiers and sabers, he reached a dueling class
“I think I understand. So since I have reached Stage three, does that mean we are going to switch to a different class?” Collin asked.
“We must conquer the next floor first. Think of it as a final test in the subjects of the Archer class and Nature Element.” Amergin said.
“Okay. Can we review the nature element?” Collin asked.
“Certainly!” Amergin said. “What have you noticed in your absorption of the cores and usage of the mana?”
“My senses changed. I can see the natural mana. I can smell certain things such as bark, grass, and even animals such as the wolves and rats we fought. I could smell them before but now It is from much greater distances and in a more specific sort of way. I am having trouble explaining that part.” Collin said. “And my usage of the mana feels the same as my others. I think my theoretical knowledge may be lacking. Proper control of mana is centered around the concept of intent. What do you intend to do with the mana that you have? This is why I am able to create an arrow capable of exploding and an arrow capable of just setting the ground on fire. I sent the fire mana into the arrow with the intent of it performing within the parameters that I set for it. With Nature, I am unsure what I can and cannot do. I grew a tree which is very effective in reaching heights or creating a temporary bridge. I created arrows that wrapped vines around the target. I am unsure what else I am capable of doing with the element. Can I create life? Can I bring someone back from the dead? I never studied this element, so I am unsure. I bet the compound has a book I could read but that does not help me currently. I have reached a hundred percent in the Nature element, but I have no clue as to what all I can do with it.”
“We have not been doing our jobs well, it seems Tiny.” Amergin said
“It’s been difficult. These constructs have no elemental mana.” Tiny said.
“No. You guys are wonderful. I am learning so much. I have the ability; I just need to increase my knowledge once we leave the tower. Please do not stop training me.” Collin hastily said.
“Do you have some nature cores left?” Tiny asked. Tiny and Amergin conjured themselves in front of Collin.
“I have three left.” Collin said. He took two cores and handed them to the constructs.
You have given Nature Core x1 to Tiny M- Elite Ranger Class Level l
You have given Nature Core to x1 Amergin M - Druid Class Level 10
Do you wish for them to absorb Nature Core x1?
Yes or No
“Are you guys saying I could have given you cores this entire time?” Collin said. “You guys could have been utilizing this much better than I could have. We should have been giving them all to you.”
“The point of all of this is to train you sir. We are secondary in the grand scheme of things sir.” Tiny said.
Collin clicked Yes on the screen and watched the two Constructs absorb the cores. He checked the status screen again.
Name: Tiny
Class: Elite Ranger
Level: 1
Matrix assigned: Nature
Affinity: Nature 100%
Skills: Vine Arrow, Leaf Shuriken, Nature Slash, Stunning Spores, Eagle eye, Wolfsense, Piercing Shot, Multi-shot,
Name: Amergin
Class: Druid
Level: 10
Matrix Assigned: Nature
Affinity: Nature 100%
Skills: Forest Expansion, Summon Familiar (Bear), Poison Spores, Healing Circle, Root Tripper, Bear sense, Crippling shot, Natures Blessing, Venomous Blade
“You guys are really powerful. Wait! Why did one core max you out?” Collin said
“Matrices do not require as much as humans do. We only needed a little bit to activate that part of our programming.” Tiny said.
“What should I do with the last core?” Collin asked
“You could assign it to one of the other constructs.” Amergin suggested. “They should be able to utilize them even though they do not have their matrix slot filled.”
“I can assign a matrix and an elemental core to my constructs?” Collin asked.
'`We really are not doing a good job of explaining this are we?’ Tiny said to Amergin.
“We are not. We need to find some others. They may have better luck with him.” Amergin stated.
“You guys are taking forever.” A voice said from above. It sounded almost like a child’s voice. Possibly female.
“Yeah! Hurry up! We are getting bored waiting.” Another childlike voice said. This one sounded male..
“Guys, You aren’t supposed to talk to them. You are going to get us in trouble.” A third childlike voice said. This sounded slightly older and was female..
“Great. They found us.” Tiny said. Collin visibly saw Tiny roll his eyes as if he was genuinely annoyed.
“Who are they?” Collin asked.
“The Triplets.” Tiny and Amergin said together.
“We should have probably explained this also. There are over ten thousand matrices that make up this compound’s tower. They are all able to watch and hear you. We have nothing else to do while we wait. The tower was designed to allow a matrix to come and help a young pledge as they and their newly created matrix figure it all out. They were supposed to stay quiet!” Tiny said. He made the last part a bit louder as he looked up at the ceiling.
“So Max and Trixie are watching and could have been talking with me this entire time?” Collin asked. “Trixie!! Are you there?”
“Tiny, you suck at your job.” The first female Child voice said. The three children began giggling in the distance.
“Guys, We are going to get in trouble again. You got to stop.” The third male voice said.
“Unfortunately, Max and Trixie are excluded from talking to you. We will have to wait until we get to the top before we can see them. They might be able to see you, but they have been specifically told not to interfere. I suspect that they are up there preparing for you. I don’t know if you have noticed yet or not, but Tonya has not been as talkative either.” Amergin said.
“Tonya, Are you there?” Collin said. There was a faint static like noise before he heard anything.
“Yes sweetie I am here. I am sorry I have not been as present. Ray has been needing help with the upcoming trip to the desert. I am also helping Caleb with some day to day duties.” Tonya said. “ I met Annie. She is such a darling of a girl.”
“No, it's okay Tonya. I understand. Go ahead and focus on them. I have plenty of voices in my head for now. If you are able to check in periodically then I would appreciate it but other than that please go help Ray. Let them know I am doing okay please.” Collin said
“Will do. Please be careful.” She said and Collin felt her presence leave his consciousness.
“What are your names?” Collin asked out loud.
“Bonnie, he is taking an interest in us. Should we play him the song?” the Male voice said.
“Ooooo Yes!! That is such a good idea Hank!” Bonnie said.
“Guys, Hector said not to bother them. We are supposed to just watch.” the other female voice said.
“Gerti , I swear to mother matrix if you don’t shut up with that crap, I am going to.. I will make my future human push your future human off of the tower.” Hank yelled.
“Gerti?” Collin asked.
“It’s short for Gertrude. Hi! I am Gertrude. This is my sister Bonnie and brother Hank.” Gerti said.
“Kids! You are not supposed to be talking. You are to be watching and learning and preparing to be installed into a human in a few years. Tiny said.
“Installing? Wait, these Matrices have never been installed before?” Collin asked.
“No. They are what you would call younglings.” Amergin said.
“How old are these Matrices versus what my generation of Matrices were?” Collin asked.
“Matrices get created by Mr. and Mrs. Artificer at the capitol. It took them roughly ten years to build us. We were then shipped here where the grandmas and grandpas have been teaching us. We just learned how to talk a few years ago.” Hank said.
“The matrices do not obtain consciousness until around their fifteenth or sixteenth year. They go through another few years of training and then are installed into a human pledge around their twentieth year. Gerti has another year or two left. The other two have much longer to go.” Amergin explained.
“I was created by the artificers forty-three years ago I think.” Tiny said.
"What about Max and Trixie?" Collin asked
"I do not know. They seemed much older whenever I met them. They never told us and we are not privy to such information sometimes." Tiny said
Collin was very much amazed by all of this. No one ever taught them how a matrix was made or where they come from. There is practically zero information about Matrices for public consumption.
“Can you get a move on already? We want to see you fight the Boss.” Bonnie yelled.
“Don’t forget to assign that nature core.” Gerti said.
“Thank you Gerti.” Collin said.
Collin went back to his status screen. He looked over the list of constructs and thought about who would benefit the most from having a natural affinity.
Name: Bronze
Class: Ranger, Wizard
Level: 10 , 1
Matrix assigned: None
Affinity: Nature 100%
Skills: Vine Arrow, Stun Spore, Life Spore, Poison Spore, Forest Expansion, Energy Ball, Nature Sight, Poison Fog, Nature Barrier, Magic bolt, Spike Trap, Camouflage
Collin stepped up on the platform and prepared for the first phase of floor ten. He arrived to see a room similar to all of the others that he had seen before. He stood there with thick knee high grass surrounding him. There was a small clearing about a hundred feet in diameter. Trees made up the remaining portion of the three hundred foot room. Collin crouched low and walked through the grass. His bow and arrow held and ready for whatever may come out. He took a deep breath and let the nature mana flow throughout his body. His eyes turned from their normal blue to a greenish hazel like tint. He watched the ambient mana flow from the forest to the center clearing. He noticed three figures standing in the center waiting for him, He quickly but quietly proceeded forward using the trees to hide him. He took a criss cross approach going from one tree to the other until he was behind one closest to the clearing. He climbed upward and crouched on a large limb overlooking the clearing.
“Tiny, how many constructs am I allowed for this?” Collin whispered.
“No limit and you are going to need it. Those Matrices are old and powerful ones.” Tiny said.
“Who are they?” Collin asked.
“Jasper the Beastmaster. Roran the Axe Champion of the West, and Cynthia the Forest Siren.” Amergin mentally told him.
Collin cursed to himself. He knew of the three. They were legendary Matrices from about fifty years ago. They each ruled the tenth region at some point before retiring. There humans all died happily of old age. They also were supposed to be with the King. If Collin could remember correctly, Jasper was able to control three familiar beasts at the same time. An Elk, A Dire Wolf, and a Sabretooth Tiger. He was also a very capable fighter on his own. Roran held a battle axe and was so strong he could cut the entire forest down with just a few horizontal swings. Cynthia was the scariest of them however. Her voice was said to be that of nature incarnate. She could sing, dance, and play any instrument. The experience could do anything from put you into a quiet sleep or cause you to go insane. She was the perfect support class.
Collin closed his eyes and focused to the far right of the clearing. He made sure to find spots hidden in the trees before activating his conjuration skill.
“Three teams of four. Tiny I want you to lead Merlot, Olive, and Blue on the right flank. You will take on Roran.” Collin said. “Wait for my signal.”
He then focused to the far left of the clearing opposite of Tiny’s team. He made sure they were also hidden before allowing them to be summoned.
“Amergin, Amber, Indigo, Red I want you over there. Take my clone construct also and see what you can do about Jasper and his familiars.
“Bronze, Sky, Orange are with me here. We need to take Cynthia before she can make a sound. Once she is handled, we are going to help the others. ”
“It’s twenty minutes. Just like when we fought but a bit longer.” Amergin said.
Collin projected a clone of himself over to the left and had him equip the sword and katana. He put as much Void and Fire mana into it as he could possibly muster. He knocked an arrow and pumped Nature and air mana into it while using earth mana to keep himself steady and still attached to the tree. He noticed Sky draw back an arrow also. Orange and Bronze began preparing a spell by muttering very quietly the proper incantations.
“Begin.” Collin mentally said to everyone as he released the arrow.
The arrow traveled with a burst of speed to the center of the clearing where the three were standing. Collin willed it to take Cynthia out. It passed Jasper and was almost past Roran when it disintegrated into pieces. Dust flew and landed at Cynthia’s feet. She looked up with a smile at Collin who was already knocking and sending another arrow her way. Sky and Bronze backing him up with a volley of arrows coming down from above. Orange was also helping with consecutive magic bolts at the group. Merlot and team came rushing out of the woods on the right to attack Roran head on. Roran and Merlot mat with a clash of battle ax and shield. Blue and Tiny came around the siding shooting everything they had at him. To the left, Amergin had summoned his bear and was rushing forward with sword in hand. Jasper summoned his three familiars. The Elk stayed behind Jasper while the Dire wolf charged forward to meet the bear. Collin did not see where the Tiger went. He ran to the left with the team behind trying to get a flank on Cynthia who was just standing there staring at him. Collin’s clone broke past the front line and headed straight to her. He began slashing and hacking away with the katana and sword, She began stepping and dodging, ducking and swaying. Collin watched her effortlessly dodges every attack. He noticed her steps were so graceful. He began watching her features. She was beautiful. Her body swayed in the dress that was tight in all the right places. Her wavy hair swayed back and forth and...
“COLLIN!!” Amergin yelled in his mind. Collin snapped out of the trance he had obviously been put in.
“Sorry.” Collin mentally said. He kept moving, shooting arrows at the three as he saw an opening.
“That is part of her defense. She is so graceful that her ducking and dodging appears as dancing. She almost got you just now. Do not watch her directly.” Amergin said.
He was going blow for blow parry for parry with Jasper while the bear and wolf attacked each other. The sheer speed of their movements was almost invisible to Collin's sight. Collin kept shooting trying to back his clone up and issue orders to the others as he saw them. He still had not found the tiger. The Elk had separated from the middle and was in battle with Amber and Red. Indigo stayed back closer to the tree line providing healing and barrier magic between the two. Red was managing pretty well. His speed has increased since hitting Stage three. He was ducking and dodging with the elk. He was dual wielding the daggers Collin had made for him and was managing to cut the elk every few blows. To the right, Merlot and Roran were still at it. Roran was clearly the stronger fighter, and Merlot was having to be healed constantly by Olive who was running around them in circles. Blue and Tiny were taking turns flanking with their short swords and daggers. Tiny’s traps were everywhere around them which was causing Merlot to also get hit.
“Tiny, disable some of your traps. It isn't worth it if Merlot is hurt also. “He thought to him. Tiny responded by sending a volley of leaf shuriken around the two causing all of the traps to go off at once. Stun spores hit the air and Olive was there with a cleansing spell removing the effects on the group before they jumped back in to attack the now stunned Roran.
“Shit, they know what they are doing.” Collin said to himself before moving back to Cynthia and his clone.
They were in full battle trances. Cynthia was matching him step for step. Collin moved some nature mana into his eyes and looked at the two trying his best not to look directly at her. He could see the ambient mana building up around them. He saw how it was physically affecting his clone's movements. A miss here. A poke there. She was toying with him until her afflictions could build up. Out of the corner of his eye, Collin saw the tiger coming at them from the left. He must have disappeared into the forest and circled around to flank them. Collin told his team to keep circling and providing range support as he jumped down into the clearing and ran towards Roran. The Tiger followed after him.
“Switch it up. Tiny, Blue take the cat. Merlot, Olive back into the tree line until you can get healed up.” Collin said.
He passed by throwing his bow at Roran as a distraction. Collin’s clone threw the katana in his direction. He effortlessly switched to single sword combat and continued his trance with Cynthia. Collin manifested the katana causing it to teleport into his hand.. He brought it down in a vertical slash trying to increase his speed as much as he could using air mana. Roran batted the bow to the side but was not fast enough to block the blow. Collin danced around him delivering slash after slash and dodging any sort of incoming attack. Roran was fast but the ax was slowing him down tremendously. Collin could feel the movement before it happened. He felt like he could tell the future as he watched the ambient mana move just ever so slightly before Roran did. He kept this on for a period before time before noticing Merlot had returned to finish the battle. His clothes were battered but he looked to be in much better shape. Collin mentally told Merlot the plan and jumped forward, sliding under an ax swing and kicking Roran between the legs. He brought his katana to the side, slashing him in the right abdomen before rolling to the left out of the way. Roran went down with the low blow and Merlot rushed forward slamming him with his shield. Roran’s ax was dropped to the side and he was pushed back onto the ground. Collin infused some natural mana into his throwing star and sent them all around Roran before running back to the center of the clearing. The stars exploded on impact causing vines to come up and hold the Champion in place. Merlot’s sword came down with a final blow before he turned and began running to help the others with the tiger. One down. Collin thought to himself.
Collin could see his clone losing his edge the more it danced with Cynthia. He knew he had to switch out with him soon. Chugging a mana potion, Collin sped forward slashing downward at Cynthia’s backside. She sidestepped and turned to face Collin. This gave his clone time to exit away and into the trees. Collin had mentally told him to get to Indigo for healing and to help with the elk. Indigo was to the left near the tree line healing Amergin’s bear. Amber Red and Amergin were keeping the elk and wolf occupied
“Hello.” Collin said. Smiling at Cynthia. She was absolutely gorgeous for a conjuration. This must have been what she looked like in her prime. Come to think of it. They died of old age so this is probably how the matrices best remembered them.
“Hel..” Cynthia tried to say but was cut off by a slash to the neck. She dodged under the blow and gave Collin a very annoyed look.
Even her annoyed look was hot. Collin thought to himself. He knew he could not let her speak. If she said one word, it would be over. He entered his battle trance and began the dance with her. He immediately felt the effects start to stack on him. She was inflecting slow, stun, disorient, and mana degrade effects on him every few seconds. She held a small knife to parry blows but nothing else.
“How much time?” Collin asked mentally.
“We hit the time a few minutes ago sir. Once you killed Roran, the parameters changed. We have to defeat them all.” Tiny said.
Tiny and team had finished off the sabretooth tiger and were rushing forward to help Amergin with Jasper. The Elk and Dire wolf were still holding their own. Collin tried to direct Cynthia away from the others and to the right. He was feeling his stamina and mana drain at a crazy rate. He wouldn’t last much longer at this rate. He felt a rush of wind blow past him and saw his clone reenter the battle. He held a fire infused sword and joined in on the dance. Collin transferred what void mana he could from him and his clone and activated his Katanas Special abilities. Halving the remaining mana, he sent some to his clone so they could both attack.
“Elk is down sir.” Tiny said in his mind. Just three more to go.
“Wolf is down.” Amergin said. “We are sending help.”
Collin felt his afflictions begin to decrease as he noticed Indigo and Olive had begun casting double heal, Barrier and Cleanse spells on him and his clone. Arrows came flying past Collin and narrowly missed Cynthia. He could feel Sky, Bronze, and Tiny behind him in the trees providing support. That left Amber, Red, Blue, Merlot and Amergin to take down the beastless master. Orange had come forward to protect Olive and Indigo.
“As soon as Jasper is out, Get back to the tree lines and provide cover. Stuff your ears with whatever you can find and try not to listen to her. I have a feeling if she opens her mouth then we are done.” Collin mentally sent out.
“Oh sweetie, you are too late for that.” a voice said in his mind. He looked up to see Cynthia smiling at him. He and his clone jumped back. She stood there watching them.
“What do you mean by that?” Collin asked her.
I mean you have been caught since the very beginning dear. Think about it.” She said walking forward. “The moment you saw me moving around with your clone you were caught.”
“No. Amergin snapped me out of it.” Collin said. “I snapped out of it before you could do anything.”
“That was just an illusion dear. One of my many specialties. Here let me show you what really happened.” She said touching him on the cheek and running her fingers up to his temple.
Collin watched as his clone was stabbed through the chest by a dagger Cynthia was holding. He saw Tiny and the others completely torn apart by Jasper with the help of his elk and dire wolf. The wolf managed to bite into and kill the bear. Merlot lay dead on his shield. Red and Tiny were slung over Roran’s shoulders with a large ax wound to their torsos. Sky, Orange, and Bronze lay in the trees. The tiger sat up there eating their corpse. Collin hit his knees. Everyone’s death cooldown had begun. Twenty-four hours with no one to help him.
“How long did I last?” Collin finally asked. Tears coming down his eyes. He had not been able to look anywhere else but forward.
“You have a few minutes remaining; however you have been sitting here for probably fifteen or so.” Cynthia said.
She held a dagger in her hand running it across his neck while she gently stroked his hair with the other hand. Her voice was so sweet. Her touch was like silk. “Once I had you, it was over. I let you sit here and play out the little fantasy as you believed it to be. I do enjoy the look men get when they finally realize that it is over”
“I really thought we had done it.” Collin said. “We just had to kill you.”
“You never had a chance. If you had never looked at me, you might have, but the moment you began thinking about me and watching me dance, you were mine. Not even the King has been able to resist me.” She bragged.
“You are not real. You are a matrix attached to a conjuration, but your human died.” Collin said.
“I am as real as you could ever need me to be.” she said leaning in and kissing him on the check.
Collin willed himself to move. He tried to teleport himself away. He tried to bring up a shadow. fire blast, vines, an air barrier, anything. He did not want to die. The King was supposed to help him. They were supposed to train him not kill him. Why did he let himself believe that he would always be safe? That all of the Matrices here were good. He sat there on his knees as Cynthia brought down the dagger to finally end his life.
“Collin.” a voice said in his mind.
“Trixie? Oh it's nice to hear your voice. I have missed you. I am sor..”
“Collin. Move!” She yelled. An overwhelming amount of void mana washed over him. His vision blurred and he blacked out.
Collin’s body reached up grabbing Cynthia by the Neck. He squeezed causing her to drop the dagger. She looked into his eyes and all she saw was darkness. Fire and Void mana engulfed him as he burned her. He pushed more and more fire mana into her until there was nothing left but a pile of ash. Collin turned toward Roran flashing forward with his Air mana. He mentally equipped the contents of the black chest.
.
Voiding Shadow Gear Set (5/5)
* 300% increase in Dark/ Void Mana control (2 / 5)
* 300% increase in Dark/ Void Mana capacity (3 / 5)
* 300% decrease in Dark/ Void Skill Cooldown (4 / 5)
* 500% increase in Dark/ Void Skill Power (5 / 5)
Voiding Shadow Chest
* Shadow Cloak - the ability to conceal self. Less effective in the presence of light.
Voiding Shadow Leggings
* 200% increase to Agility
Voiding Shadow Gauntlets
* Shadow Grasp - the ability to grab and manipulate distant objects using shadows
Voiding Shadow Boots
* Shadow Jump - the ability to travel between shadows
Voiding Shadow Helm
* 200% increase to perception
* Dark Vision - the ability to see in dim and dark areas
WARNING: Void Mana inadequate, Burnout Imminent
10 seconds
Black Hole Daggers x2
* Striking the air creates black holes that consume a 1 ft by 1 ft area.
* Critical strikes cause targets to implode.
Shadow Katana x1
* Shadows follow the path of the blade
* Shadow slash - sends a wave of shadows at target
Voided throwing stars x20
* Stars teleport instantly to target
* 2 stars can be thrown at separate targets. On contact, objects switch places. Max range 100 ft
WARNING: Void Mana inadequate, Burnout Imminent
10 seconds
Collin rushed forward, throwing two stars and jumping into the nearest shadow. The shadow stars hit the wolf and elk causing them to disappear. Collin reappeared behind Roran thrusting his Black Hole Dagger deep into the rear shoulder of the champion. He activated its ability causing a black void to form. Everything was sucked into it including the champion. He threw a star in the direction of the tiger. The Elk and wolf appeared crashing into the trees. Collin then disappeared again as Jasper ran forward to slash him. He missed and desperately tried to get away as he was caught in the black hole. Collin appeared behind with a slash from his katana. Jasper's head rolled to the side before being sucked up into the black hole. The environment faded away to reveal a black room with two pedestals on each side. It was over. Multiple Pop up screens appeared as Collin’s body fell to the ground. His gear set returned to the black chest.
Floor Ten Complete
Rewards:
+5,000 Battle Coin (BC) , +10 Minor Health Potion, +10 Minor Mana Potion, +10 Antidote
+1 Nature Bard Matrix “Cynthia”, +1 Nature BeastMaster Matrix “Jasper”, +1 Nature Champion Matrix “Roran”, +5 Nature Cores,
+1 Bard Class F Level 1, +1 Champion Class M level 1, +1 Beastmaster Class M level 1 +1 Dancer Class F Level 1
Nature Floor Complete
Battle Tower Store Permanent Unlock.
+1 Nature Gear Set (Assigned to Gear Set 3)
Burnout Activated.
Death Imminent:
10 Seconds