I Became The Tower Master-Chapter 16 - : A New Era

Six months had passed since the Eclipse Guild's first mission, and the world had undergone a dramatic transformation. The chaos that once reigned supreme had been replaced by a fragile stability, thanks to the efforts of climbers and the establishment of guilds worldwide. A global treaty, signed by the strongest guilds of each nation, had temporarily halted tower entries to allow the world to recover. But now, that treaty was on the verge of collapse, and the tower's call was growing louder.

The world had changed in ways no one could have predicted. Climbers, once seen as anomalies, had become symbols of power and hope. Guilds rose to prominence, each representing their respective countries and holding authority over tower entries.

In Japan, the Eclipse Guild led by Hiroshi Nakamura had become the nation's most powerful organization. Hiroshi, an SS-rank climber with unparalleled abilities and a level 10, commanded respect and awe. Their headquarters in Tokyo was a sprawling complex, a testament to their influence. The guild had not only cleared monster-infested areas but also established a network of safe zones across the country.

Over in the United States, the Titan Vanguard was based in New York. Known for its military-like discipline and cutting-edge technology, the guild was led by Marcus Steele, an S-rank climber with the skill Iron Dominion and a level 9. Under his leadership, the guild had turned into a formidable force.

In China, the Dragon's Ascent headquartered in Beijing was led by Li Wei, an S-rank climber with the skill Celestial Flame and a level 9. The guild had become a symbol of national pride, with its members revered as modern-day warriors.

Germany had the Ironclad Order based in Berlin, led by Klaus Richter, an S-rank climber whose skill Steel Forge allowed him to create indestructible weapons. Klaus, a level 9 climber, had turned his guild into a model of efficiency and strategic brilliance.

In India, the Phoenix Rising was led by Priya Sharma, an S-rank climber with the skill Solar Rebirth and a level 10. This guild had become a beacon of hope in a country ravaged by monsters. Their headquarters in Mumbai buzzed with activity, as climbers trained tirelessly for the challenges ahead.

Lastly, in Russia, the Frostborne Legion was based in Moscow. Led by Ivan Volkov, an S-rank climber whose skill Glacial Wrath made him a formidable leader, the guild had earned a reputation for its resilience and unyielding determination. Ivan, a level 9 climber, had ensured the guild's strength and reputation.

These six guilds established themselves as The Guild Union to manage climbers, striving to keep them within a functional society and prevent them from going berserk or using their powers irresponsibly. The Guild Union also took on the responsibility of upholding the world treaty, ensuring that climbers adhered to the agreed-upon regulations and maintaining global stability.

In Tokyo, Alden had carved out a life of luxury for himself. He had built a penthouse atop the Eclipse Guild headquarters, a sprawling space filled with modern amenities and breathtaking views of the city. The penthouse was a reflection of his success a reward for the countless missions he had orchestrated and the wealth he had accumulated.

As Alden lounged on his balcony, a glass of wine in hand, he reflected on the past six months. It's been a wild ride, he thought. From struggling in the tower to living like a king. Not bad for a law student.

He had squeezed every penny out of the missions, negotiating lucrative contracts with the government and private corporations. His wealth had grown exponentially, and he had used it to fund the guild's operations while ensuring his own comfort.

Training had also been a priority. Alden had spent hours honing his skills, pushing the limits of Impact Vault and Space Manipulation. His control had become so refined that it was several levels ahead of his current standing.

Alden's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps. His maid approached with a message. "Sir, Kenji is here to see you. He says it's urgent."

Alden raised an eyebrow. "Send him in."

Kenji entered the penthouse, his usual smirk replaced by a look of exhaustion. Dark circles under his eyes hinted at the toll his role as the guild's strategist had taken on him.

"You look like hell," Alden remarked, pouring Kenji a glass of wine. "I was right in assigning you as the guild strategist."

Like hell you were. The only non-existing department in our guild is HR, and I know the reason why, Kenji thought, taking a sip of the wine.

Kenji accepted the glass with a tired smile. "Thanks, boss. I've been working non-stop to keep this guild running. But that's not why I'm here."

"The treaty's falling apart," Kenji said, his tone serious. "People are getting restless. They want to climb the tower again, and the guilds can't hold them back forever. If we don't act soon, we'll lose our monopoly on power."

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Alden leaned back in his chair, his expression calm. "About time. I'm surprised it held this long." His eyes narrowed. "And your suggestion?"

"We go back to the tower," Kenji said. "We need to level up and stay ahead of the competition to maintain our monopoly on power. If we don't, someone else will."

Alden studied Kenji for a moment, a faint smile playing on his lips. He's smarter than he looks. After six months, he's finally figured out who's really in charge.

"You're right," Alden said, standing up. "Order the guild to prepare. We're going back to the tower."

As Kenji left to carry out Alden's orders, Alden stood on the balcony, his gaze fixed on the tower in the distance. The lights of Tokyo flickered below, a reminder of the world he had helped shape.

The treaty's over, Alden thought. And my break from hearing cringy lines ends now. I might resort to a permanent solution at this rate.

I wasn't born a villain, Hiroshi, but your cringe turned me into one, he thought, trying to squeeze a crocodile tear out of his eyes.