Chapter 7: The Tower’s True Trial

Chapter 7: The Tower's True Trial

Jin and Aerin stood amidst the quiet forest, their breathing heavy. Around them lay the fallen forms of the Ironhide Troll, Crimson Fang Lizard, and Two-Headed Serpent—creatures they had barely managed to overcome.

But there was no time to relax.

> [Trial Time Remaining: 8 Hours]

[Surviving Players: 2,301,487]

Jin narrowed his eyes. More than five million players had already failed. The numbers were dropping at an alarming rate.

Aerin sighed, wiping dust from her daggers. "This isn't going to get easier."

Jin agreed. The longer the trial continued, the more intense the challenges became. And something told him the worst was yet to come.

He was right.

The air shifted, growing heavy with pressure. An unnatural silence settled over the trees.

Then, a system announcement echoed across the trial zone.

> [Phase 3 of the Trial Begins]

Players will now face direct confrontations. Only the strongest will advance.

Jin's instincts flared. This wasn't just about monsters anymore.

And then, from the mist, they appeared.

---

The Blood Moon Raiders Appear

Jin and Aerin turned as a group of players emerged from the trees.

There were seven of them, all well-equipped, their weapons glinting in the dim light. Their leader, a tall man in a crimson cloak, stepped forward, wearing a confident smirk.

> [Blood Moon Raiders – Known Competitive Guild]

Jin's expression darkened. So that's what this was.

Phase 3 wasn't about survival anymore.

It was about players facing each other head-on.

The Blood Moon leader's gaze drifted over Jin and Aerin. "You two are still standing? Impressive."

Jin didn't react.

Aerin, however, tightened her grip on her daggers. "Troublemakers." Her voice was sharp, filled with dislike.

Jin had heard of groups like this before—competitive players who thrived on dominance. Now that the system allowed direct battles, they would challenge anyone they deemed unworthy of advancing.

The leader chuckled. "No need to be so tense. We're just here to test our skills." His gaze flicked to Aerin. "You seem capable. Interested in joining us?"

Aerin didn't even hesitate. "Not a chance."

Jin sighed. "Guess that means we're doing this the hard way."

The Blood Moon leader's smirk widened. "That's how we prefer it." He lifted his hand—and his team rushed forward.

---

A Battle of Strategy and Strength

Three players targeted Jin, moving in sync.

Jin stayed calm. He activated Phantom Stride, his form flickering as he evaded their initial strike.

One attacker lunged forward, aiming a precise stab toward Jin's side—but the blade met nothing but air.

Jin reappeared behind him.

With a swift counter, he struck the attacker's side, sending him stumbling.

> [Opponent Weakened: +250 Exp]

The second opponent swung a heavy weapon, aiming straight for Jin's chest.

Jin stepped back just in time, then retaliated with a precise, forceful blow, knocking his opponent back.

The third hesitated, uncertainty flashing in his eyes.

Jin smirked. "Still want to keep going?"

The man quickly retreated.

Jin let him go. This wasn't about unnecessary fights—it was about proving strength.

---

Aerin vs. The Blood Moon Leader

While Jin handled the others, Aerin was locked in a swift and intense duel with the Blood Moon leader.

Her daggers moved with sharp precision, but the leader was fast—blocking, countering, adjusting.

> [Blood Edge – Passive]

Each successful move increases overall combat effectiveness.

Jin noticed it immediately—the longer the battle lasted, the quicker and sharper the leader became.

Aerin was in a tough spot.

Jin moved without hesitation, using Phantom Stride to close the distance instantly.

But the leader was prepared.

With fluid motion, he redirected his attack—his blade aiming for Jin's side.

Jin barely avoided it. Fast.

But he had an advantage.

> [Skill Copied: Blood Edge]

Each successful move enhances performance in battle.

Jin smirked. "Let's see who adapts faster."

He pushed forward, energy surging through his body.

The Blood Moon leader's eyes widened—just before Jin's counterattack connected.

A shockwave rippled from the impact.

The leader stumbled back, momentarily dazed.

Aerin seized the opening—her daggers slashed in a precise arc, disarming him.

The leader staggered, unable to continue.

> [Blood Moon Leader Defeated!]

The remaining Blood Moon members retreated instantly.

The battle was over.

Jin exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "That was more trouble than it was worth."

Aerin shook her head. "They'll be back."

Jin nodded. The real challenge had only just begun.

From this point forward, it wasn't just monsters they had to prepare for.

It was other players.

> [Trial Time Remaining: 6 Hours]

And the most difficult battle was yet to come.

---

End of Chapter 7