"You've got the build of a barbarian, I'll give you that."
The three soldiers were eyeing me in disbelief, drenched in sweat from marching non-stop for over a full day and night. Their legs trembled slightly, exhaustion etched into their expressions.
Ever since they'd been dispatched to scout this region, anxiety had been their constant companion — fear of death, fear of monsters, fear of leaving their loved ones behind in this unforgiving Tower. Yet, none of them dared disobey the command of their leader. He was, after all, the only one they believed could lead them to survival.
As for me, this body I had crafted was far beyond human limits. A day and night of walking? Laughable. I could run for a week straight and still not feel a hint of fatigue. Naturally, they were awed by my stamina.
[Name: Samuel]
Level: 3
Race: Human
Affiliation: Arm Hearts Guild
Titles: —
Skills: —
Traits: Calm Demeanor, Cunning, Enhanced Smelling Sense (E)]
"We're fifteen minutes from the camp gates," Samuel informed us in a low, steady voice.
He was the one who had whispered into Zaine's ear during my earlier interrogation. Samuel served as the team's guide, using his sharpened sense of smell to navigate around areas tainted with the scent of blood or nearby monsters.
The reason he vouched for me back then was simple — he hadn't detected even a trace of blood on me. That, to him, was enough to suggest I wasn't a cannibal.
But there was more to Samuel than met the eye. His "Cunning" trait raised questions. Something about him suggested he preferred operating behind the scenes. I'd need to watch him closely.
[Name: Zaine]
Level: 5
Race: Human
Affiliation: Arm Hearts Guild
Titles: —
Technique: Historical European Martial Arts (40%)Traits: Loyal, Prideful]
Zaine's skill intrigued me the most.
[Historical European Martial Arts]
[a structured combat discipline from Earth's Middle Ages. It focused on the mastery of swords, rapiers, and daggers — techniques drawn from ancient manuals. Though not flashy, it was disciplined and deadly when used correctly.]
For early-stage Tower players, even something this "basic" could be a tremendous asset.
No wonder Zaine was the captain. His level was the highest, and he carried himself with sharp discipline.
Then there was Brent — the third member of their team. A background character in every sense. No notable skills. No remarkable traits. Just a body to fill a spot.
As we approached the looming gates of the camp, two figures emerged ahead of us — motionless guards, standing watch like statues.
"Zaine? Already back? It's only been three days." One of the guards stepped forward, eyeing our group. "Did you run into something dangerous?"
His eyes flicked over to me.
"And… who's the naked guy? Don't recall him leaving camp with your squad."
Right. I still needed clothes.
"This is urgent," Zaine replied curtly. "I need to speak with the leader immediately. This man is a barbarian I found in the forest — and he has critical information for both the leader and the guild."
The guards exchanged glances but said nothing more. Without another word, they pulled open the heavy wooden gates and allowed us through.
Zaine's name carried weight here. He was a rising star, well-regarded by the leader, and rumored to be a future member of the elite unit tasked with clearing the second floor of the Tower.
As the guards returned to their posts, I finally had a full view of the camp.
And to my surprise — it was no mere outpost. It was a city.
In just seven years, humanity had managed to construct a thriving, fortified settlement. The architecture was inspired by old European styles — stone houses, timber-framed walls, marketplaces with canopies fluttering in the wind. The streets bustled with life. Merchants hawked fresh meat and vegetables. Blacksmiths showcased gleaming swords, spears, and armor. It was vibrant — far more optimistic than I had anticipated.
"AWWWW! A NAKED MAN!!!"
Not again.
We approached a tall stone building — clearly the guild's headquarters.
"We've arrived," Zaine said. "You two are dismissed. Go home, rest. I'll report this personally to the leader. And don't worry, your rewards will be issued."
He spoke with authority — the kind that only came from someone destined for more. Clearly, Zaine wasn't just another player. He had access. Influence.
Brent offered a short farewell and left without hesitation.
Samuel, on the other hand, lingered a moment. His sharp eyes briefly locked with mine. Then, with a faint nod, he followed Brent out.
Now it was just Zaine and me — walking into the heart of the Arm Hearts Guild.
Inside, the mood shifted dramatically. The streets had been filled with cheer and chatter, but here..…here was tension. Resolve. Steel.
Everywhere I looked, players stood sharpening their weapons, training, or glaring at me with suspicion. Most were bare-chested, their bodies carved from hardship and battle. Every step I took was met with curious — and judgmental — stares.
And no one needed to guess why.