Rise Of The Hoarder

The Gamma Force returned to the Human Alliance Headquarters, their spoils in tow.

The journey back was not particularly difficult, considering they had a teleportation stone that allowed them to get transported directly to their destination.

The effects of the stone indiscriminately covered the immediate surroundings, so if they had used it earlier, it would have brought the Grade 3 Demon with them. However, with all safe and sound, and with the resources all collected, they could utilize it.

Tia, as the leader, stood in front of the other nine members as the light flashed all around them. One second, they were in the devastated environment, and the next, they were right in front of the hallowed grounds standing before them.

The massive headquarters of Gifteds—the only stronghold of such magnitude—stood tall and imposing amidst the ruins of what was once a bustling city.

In this dystopian world, the only way to survive was to be skilled—not only in combat and strategy—but also in creating the perfect abode for a functional society.

Their leader, Paul, understood this completely well. That was why he built such an amazing place for Gifteds to gather and work together.

The headquarters, a towering structure made of enchanted metal and reinforced concrete, was the hub for those seeking adventure, danger, and the chance for a better life.

Not every human joined the association, but a majority did. Other than the headquarters, a total of ninety other buildings were situated all over the world—all under the banner of the Unified Gifted Association.

Thanks to the steady supply of Transportation Stones, they could transport people, resources, and information among one another. Within six days, this intricate network had been conceived and managed by Paul.

That was what made him such a great leader.

"Let's go," Tia spoke to her fellows, and they nodded instantly.

*

*

*

Inside, the atmosphere was bustling with activity. People of all shapes and sizes could be seen milling about, some sharpening weapons while others discussing their recent exploits.

The walls were lined with maps of the surrounding areas, displaying the various territories controlled by them, and the ones where dangerous creatures lurked.

As one ventured deeper into the headquarters, the sounds of clanging metal and explosions grew louder. In the central chamber, a group of Gifted was gathered around a massive holographic display, strategizing for their next mission.

A hulking brute of a man, covered in scars and carrying a massive axe, barked out orders to his team. A young woman with a sniper rifle slung over her shoulder nodded in agreement, while a sleek, robotic companion hovered silently beside her.

'Looks like they're heading out too…' Tia noticed, returning the nod they gave her.

Even though they had just arrived from a very dangerous mission, everyone was too busy to grant them the appropriate welcome. They were either resting from their missions, or preparing to go on another one.

The rest of the Gamma Force was most likely on patrol, while the Alpha and Beta teams had gone out to more dangerous areas to secure more resources for the impending crisis. It was a busy day.

Tia left the ground floor and climbed the stairs to the upper floors. In the adjacent room, a group of scientists and engineers were hard at work on their latest inventions—most likely based on Paul's specifications.

Not everyone was suited for battle, and these engineers had fine Jobs and Skills that allowed them to develop tools that the Gifted needed in their war against Demons. They were just as important as the fighters.

Tia granted them a wave before walking past the room, seeking the next flight of stairs that would take her even higher.

Her team had to report to Paul directly, considering they were among the top 3 in the Alliance. Smaller, less skilled teams had a hierarchy to follow, but Alpha, Beta, Gamma… and Omega, all skipped that process and had direct access to the very zenith.

The Grandmaster himself!

*

*

*

"You may come in."

Upon arriving right in front of the massive golden gate that separated their leader's office from the massive hallway, Tia and her teammates heard the voice call from within.

They didn't even need to knock, and neither had they made their presence known, yet the man inside had been so perceptive of their presence.

Tia was convinced that even her strongest <Assassin> Skill would do no good in face of his sharp mind.

"Yes. Right away." She said, proceeding to open the large gate before her.

The moment the ten members of Gamma Force stepped in, they were brought into another world entirely.

The luxurious office of the powerful Grandmaster was a sight to behold. Located on the top floor of a grand headquarter building, it had large windows that offered breathtaking views of the city skyline. The walls were lined with rich mahogany paneling, accented by ornate gold fixtures and plush crimson carpets.

All of these designs were made by the man himself.

At the back corner of the room sat a massive oak desk, polished to a high shine and adorned with a gilded nameplate. Behind the desk sat a high-backed leather chair, facing the entrance with an air of authority. The chair looked plush and comfortable, perfectly suited to be occupied by someone as great as the owner.

However, this wasn't where the Grandmaster was.

"Welcome, Tia… everyone." Paul's words echoed within the massive room.

His hands were behind him and his back was facing the group. He was currently in a still state, looking out of his massive windows to see the devastated world that covered the view.

"It's good to be back, Lord Pariah." Tia smiled, bowing in his presence.

The rest of her teammates did the same.

"Haha, please don't. I do not deserve such a title." Paul removed his face from the distracting landscape and looked at the group with a warm smile.

His white hair danced atop his head and his perfectly crimson eyes shone with such elegance that it was breathtaking. His audience took in this sight, in awe of his pristine beauty and impeccable charisma.

"No, Lord Pariah…" Tia smiled as she and her comrades bowed even further.

"... It is only fitting."