As the machines' relentless beeping grew fainter, Nox felt his consciousness slipping away, his life force ebbing with each shallow breath. The hospital room faded, the fluorescent lights blurring into streaks of pale blue before plunging into darkness. He was falling, plummeting through an endless void, colors swirling around him, He wasn't sure if he was dead or in between.
Nox awoke with a gasp, his heart pounding wildly in his chest. For a moment, he was disoriented, unsure of where he was or how he had gotten there, I'm alive?... he whispered, his lips barely moving. Nox looked down at himself, noticing that he was still wearing the hospital gown he was in.
In contrast to the fantasy attire of everyone else in the plaza, he stuck out like a sore thumb.
He could feel the stares of curious onlookers boring into him, and he quickly stood up, without hesitation he began sprinting away to find somewhere to lay low and understand what's going on. Nox ran blindly through the crowded streets, his bare feet slapping against the cobblestones. His mind reeled as he tried to make sense of his situation. How did he end up here? Was this some kind of dream? Or worse, was he actually dead?
No, he couldn't accept that. He had to be alive somehow. But where was he? This didn't look like any city he'd ever seen before. The architecture was strange, a mix of medieval Europe and futuristic sci-fi. And the people! They were dressed in such bizarre outfits, like they'd stepped right out of a video game or anime.
Suddenly, Nox slammed into something solid. Pain exploded in his nose as he fell backwards onto the hard ground. Nox groaned, rubbing his throbbing nose. Through tear-blurred eyes, he saw a pair of shapely legs encased in fishnet stockings and thigh-high boots. Following the line upwards, he took in a corseted waist, ample cleavage spilling out of a black lace bodice, and finally, a pretty face framed by short pixie cut with dark purple hair and crimson red eyes . Are you okay? the woman asked, extending a hand to help him up. Her voice was soft and melodic, with a almost tomboyish accent. .I-I think so, he mumbled, accepting her assistance.
As he rose to his feet, he noticed that she was taller than him, despite his own considerable height. She must have been wearing heels. You're new here, aren't you? she said, eyeing his hospital gown with amusement.
the woman sighed dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. Let me break it down for you. Imagine the Tower as its own separate universe, a realm where magic and reality collide. It exists outside of normal space-time, almost like a parallel dimension.She began counting off on her fingers. First, there are the Randoms like yourself, plucked from your original worlds, which is normal here for the most Part…..
Then there are the Tower Residents, born and bred here. And finally, there are the Rankers, climbers who challenge themselves and others to ascend the Tower's floors, facing increasingly difficult trials and dungeons along the way. Nox's head spun with the information overload. Wait, so we're on a lower floor right now? "Bingo!!!" she exclaimed.
Floor 1, to be precise. The easiest level, but still packed with wonder and danger.
the woman asked, smirking slightly. Good. Now let me show you around Floor 1 properly. As if on cue, a floating orb of light appeared beside her, illuminating their surroundings. Nox gasped as he took in the sight - lush forests, bubbling streams, and quaint villages dotted the landscape. It was like something out of the future.
This is the starter zone, she explained, gesturing broadly. It's designed to ease newcomers into life in the Tower. Over there is the village square, where you can buy supplies, take quests, and mingle with other adventurers. Those woods lead to the first set of dungeons - perfect for grinding levels early on. "Oh by the way what the hell is the orb thing?…" Nox says confused
This little beauty? She tapped the floating orb gently, causing it to emit a soft hum. It's your very own Status Window, my dear. Your personal assistant and lifeline rolled into one convenient package "the navigator ". The orb shimmered and expanded, projecting a holographic display in front of them both. Nox saw his name, 'Nox', written in bold letters above various stats and skill slots. His gaze flicked over the basic info
Name: Nox St. Dolor
Sex: Male
Age :20
Height : 5'11
Current level: 1
Attributes: none
Skills: none
Magic Affinity:?
??????????: ?
It shows your attributes, skills, inventory, and quest log, she explained patiently. You can use it to check your progression, equip items, or even chat with others through the built-in communication function.
Oh by the way, I'm Retsu, she said with a light chuckle, extending her hand. I guess I got carried away explaining everything and completely forgot to introduce myself properly. Sorry about that. Retsu's navigator glowed softly as she added Nox to her contacts list.
He did the same, feeling a strange tingle run through him when their devices synced.There we go, she smiled warmly. Now we won't get separated easily.
"So Ready to explore the forest area?" Nox says awaiting Retsu's response
"Wait!" Retsu suddenly exclaimed, stopping short. Her gaze raked over Nox's form critically, lingering on his flimsy hospital gown. "You can't possibly go out there dressed like that!"
She shook her head in amusement. "No offense, but you look like you're heading to a sleepover rather than a battlezone. That outfit won't last five seconds against a hungry monster , let alone anything stronger."
Approaching a nearby shop, Retsu pushed open the door, sending a bell jingling overhead. "Come on, let's get you equipped properly. We'll find some decent armor and maybe a weapon too. Can't have you dying on me before we've even left town!"