All in Charisma (A LitRPG/Isekai Adventure)

The next morning dawned crisp and clear. Justin's Jester's Roulette granted him +6 to Charisma and a Fire Breath attack usable six times throughout the day—largely useless except for dramatic effect, though the Charisma boost would certainly assist their sales efforts.

The breakfast table buzzed with nervous energy as everyone reviewed their final preparations. Tammy quizzed Rita on price points in broken Aranthian while Rinna double-checked her charm inventory.

Each courier team was equipped with gold-tier summoning amulets linked to Justin's map. For this inaugural day, they decided to work in pairs—Justin partnered with Ilsa, while Lila teamed up with Rinna.

Alistair would coordinate from headquarters; if any courier's charm lit up, he'd know they'd made a membership sale and would find the correct bronze or silver charm to place in its dedicated cubbyhole. This way, if they processed multiple memberships in a day, they would know the correct order when the courier returned with the information.

Rita and Tammy would handle walk-in customers, while Ardabel focused on replenishing potion stock as needed.

"Remember the strategy we discussed," Lila said, consulting her notes. "Rinna and I will target local businesses and guilds. Justin and Ilsa will focus on residential areas and individual customers." She held up a stack of carefully prepared inventory lists. "We've divided the potions accordingly—guild-specific items go with the business team, general healing and utility potions with the residential team. The remainder stays here as backup stock."

The flyers Lila produced were simple but hopefully effective—a brief explanation of their revolutionary delivery concept alongside their Copper Lane address. It should be clear to any middle-class, literate citizen.

All that was missing was a proper logo: For now, they were relying on a stylized Aranthian runes that simply said "Summon & Supply."

"Today isn't about maximizing profit," Lila continued. "We're gathering intelligence. Who are our potential customers? What do they want? Every interaction teaches us something valuable. Take notes."

Ilsa adjusted her pack nervously, her face pale despite her determined expression. "I expect resistance from potential customers. This concept is so foreign to most people's experience."

"That's exactly why we need you out there," Justin said encouragingly. "Your analytical mind will help us identify patterns in customer objections. Besides, you understand commerce better than most. You'll recognize opportunities the rest of us might miss."

Rinna practically bounced with enthusiasm, a sharp contrast to Ilsa's apprehension. "I'm going to showcase every charm I have! People won't be able to resist once they understand the concept. Plus, aren't they just so pretty?"

She held up a silver medallion suspended on a braided cord. It gleamed in the enchanted lantern light of the store.

"They are," Justin confirmed, "but let's keep expectations realistic. If we enroll even three or four members today, I'll consider it a success. We're not just selling a delivery service—we're asking people to change how they think about acquiring goods. That's a significant mental leap."

Tammy nodded from behind the counter. "I understand, Mr. Talemaker. Anyone who buys something here will be pitched on membership. Launch week special: twenty percent off for immediate commitment—one silver, twenty coppers for bronze membership. Silver still full price."

"Perfect." Justin glanced at the newly acquired clock on the wall. Two minutes until their planned departure. This felt like the right moment for final encouragement.

He drew upon his enhanced charisma, letting his conviction infuse his words:

"Listen, everyone. What we're attempting today has never been done before in this world. We're not just opening another shop or joining an established trade. We're creating something entirely new. That means we'll face skepticism, confusion, and possibly ridicule from those who can't envision what we're offering.

"But remember this: every revolutionary idea seemed impossible until someone made it real. Every convenience people take for granted today was once seen as an absurd luxury. We have the chance to fundamentally improve how commerce works in Belmora, to give people back time they'd otherwise spend traveling to markets, to bring goods directly to those who need them most.

"You might be rejected dozens of times today. People might laugh at the concept, dismiss it as fantasy, tell you to get lost. That's not failure. It's market research. Every 'no' teaches us something about how to improve our approach. Every confused expression shows us what we need to explain better.

"But when we get that first 'yes'—when someone's eyes light up with understanding, when they realize what this could mean for their daily life—that's when we'll know we're onto something transformational. One success today could lead to ten next week, a hundred next month.

"We're not just selling memberships or potions. We're selling the future. So go out there with confidence, handle rejection with grace, and never forget that today marks the beginning of something that could change everything."

The room fell silent as his words settled in. Then Rinna let out a small cheer, Ilsa straightened her shoulders with renewed determination, and even Rita nodded in understanding despite the language barrier.

"That's the spirit!" Lila said, shouldering her pack. "Let's do this!"

"Good pep talk," Alistair added from his position by the door. "Now get out there and prove everything Justin said."

Justin checked the clock one last time. "All right, everyone. Let's revolutionize commerce."

Both teams set off in high spirits, initially traveling together before separating at Saint Muriel's Plaza, where Mudside's main market had taken root. The morning bustle was in full swing—dozens of vendors arranged their wares while early shoppers moved between stalls, many grabbing quick meals before heading to work.

"Look at this foot traffic," Ilsa observed, watching the steady stream of customers. "A market stall here would bring business directly to us instead of us chasing after it."

They circulated through the market twice, cataloging the competition. Most vendors sold food staples and household goods, with one corner stall offering a modest selection of potions alongside herbal remedies. Justin's monocle revealed the proprietor wasn't even Alchemist-classed. Likely someone mixing folk remedies rather than proper magical brews.

"Time to test the waters," Justin said, producing their flyers.

The concept of street marketing seemed uncommon in Belmora; their approach drew curious rather than annoyed glances.

Justin spotted a well-dressed woman in her forties examining hand-woven baskets and waited until she'd finished her conversation with the vendor.

"Good morning," he said, adopting his most professional demeanor. "I'm Justin Talemaker from Summon & Supply, a new potions establishment here in Mudside. Might I interest you in learning about our services?"

The woman accepted his flyer with polite skepticism, her expression warming as his enhanced Charisma took effect. "Summon & Supply? That's certainly a curious name for a potions shop."

"Indeed. We specialize in high-quality potions along with the convenience of home delivery," Justin explained. "Everything from beauty tonics to healing elixirs, all crafted by certified professionals."

"Delivery, you say?" Her tone suggested she was calculating hidden costs. "That must be frightfully expensive."

"Actually, we offer very reasonable membership rates. Twenty percent off today for new customers—just one silver, twenty coppers for our bronze tier. Good for delivery at one address in Belmora."

She glanced at the flyer's address. "Copper Lane... isn't that rather close to the rougher districts?"

"The location is secure, I assure you. But if you'd rather not visit in person, our delivery service brings everything directly to your door."

"Hmm." The woman's interest sharpened. "Are these potions crafted by trained Alchemists? The quality here varies wildly, and those of us without a class have trouble discerning what is real and what isn't. I've been disappointed before."

"Our shop partners with a certified Alchemist and a Songbrewer," Justin replied. "I co-own the business with the Songbrewer herself."

The woman's eyebrows shot up. "A Songbrewer? That changes everything! Where did you say your shop is located?"

After giving detailed directions, Justin watched in amazement as the woman tucked the flyer into her purse and headed purposefully toward Copper Lane.

"That reaction to 'Songbrewer' was striking," Ilsa noted once they were alone. "She barely reacted to 'Alchemist' but completely changed her attitude at the mention of the advanced class."

"And she specifically mentioned beauty tonics," Justin added. "There's clearly demand in that market segment we hadn't fully considered."

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"One data point, but promising," Ilsa agreed. "Should we follow up on this lead or continue canvassing?"

"Let's keep drumming up business. We need more data points, as you said."

"I'll take the lead on this one," Ilsa said, straightening her shoulders.

They approached a middle-aged man examining leather bags, waiting for him to move on before intercepting him.

"Good morning, sir!" Ilsa said brightly. It was unusual to see her so cheerful. Justin appreciated her effort. "Could I interest you in a new business in the quarter?"

He glanced at her before shifting his gaze to Justin. "What's this? Another con job?"

"No con, sir," Ilsa said, maintaining her smile despite the accusation. "A new establishment opening nearby—Summon & Supply. Have you heard of it?"

He glanced at the flyer and handed it back. "Why are you giving me this?"

"It explains our services," Justin interjected. "We offer high-quality potions with home delivery..."

"I can't read," the man said bluntly. "Just tell me where it is, and I'll decide if it's worth my time."

"67 Copper Lane," Ilsa replied quickly. "We have a Songbrewer on staff!"

"Fine." He shrugged and continued browsing, clearly unimpressed.

They gained some distance before analyzing the interaction.

"Different demographics, different priorities," Justin observed once they were out of earshot. "The literacy issue is something we hadn't considered."

"He didn't react to 'Songbrewer' at all," Ilsa noted. "Unlike our first contact."

"Let's get back to it," Justin said. "We're already learning a lot."

Over the next few hours, they approached dozens of potential customers, deliberately seeking diversity in age, race, and social status. The reactions were as varied as the people themselves.

A young orc woman at a jewelry stall perked up at "delivery service."

"You mean I wouldn't have to close my stall to shop for potions? When do you start?"

She signed up for a bronze membership on the spot. Justin hadn't even had a chance to mention the 20% discount, so they got the full silver and fifty.

"I take an energy restorative every day," the orc said. "But sometimes I run out and need a top-up. I've got a lot on my plate these days. What's your pricing on those?"

"Twenty coppers for a single dose of our bronze energy restorative," Justin said, thankful he remembered the price. Thirty for a silver quality."

"We actually have some in stock right now," Ilsa said. "How many do you want?"

"Hmm. Just one bronze for now. And tomorrow, I may try this service and get another. And as I understand, the membership means free delivery for a year?"

"That's right," Justin said. "A year."

"Remarkable. Even if I want something every day?"

"Especially if you want something every day! Just keep in mind that with the bronze membership, we can only deliver to one address. If you want delivery anywhere in Belmora, that'll require a silver membership. And with the silver, you can't change positions once you place the order. Otherwise we don't be able to find you easily."

"I see. Well, how long do I have to wait for delivery? I don't want to be stuck somewhere for hours waiting for something that may never come. And what if you don't have what I want?"

All good questions Justin hadn't considered. Originally, he had imagined next-day delivery for items, but that wouldn't work for the silver charm. It was less like Amazon and more like Door Dash.

"Delivery is in two hours or less," Justin said.

"That seems very fast," the orc said approvingly. "If you can deliver that, I suspect you'll be a very rich man."

She rummaged through her purse, producing a silver coin and fifty coppers. In exchange for her old copper charm, Justin handed her a new silver one. She examined the medallion approvingly. Rinna was right to be proud of its craftmanship; it positively sparkled in the morning sunlight.. Justin would need to ensure a logo was created and emblazoned on each one for effective branding and word of mouth.

Justin realized one map at headquarters wouldn't suffice. Every courier would need a map to check constantly, ensuring no new customers used their own silver charms. Bronze ones were easy enough to keep track of one address, but silvers would cause constant map updates, especially once they scaled. He also needed to divide the couriers into specific zones for greater efficiency.

For now, they would only service the surrounding neighborhood—areas reachable within half an hour.

Ilsa produced the energy tonic, and they exchanged money: three silvers and twenty coppers.

"Pleasure doing business with you," Justin said, tipping his top hat. "You summon, we supply!"

The orc downed the restorative like a shot. "Heh. I like that. I'll see you tomorrow, then."

"One last thing," Ilsa said. "We need your basic information. Name and address are most important."

"What do you need that for? Don't you deliver to wherever I am?"

"Yes, but we prefer to have a fallback address in case we can't find you."

"All right, then. Makes sense."

The orc provided her information. To Justin's relief, it wasn't too far away.

"Interesting idea," the orc said again. "Last question: do I at least get my money back if this doesn't work out?"

"Yes," Justin replied. "We have a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like the membership, return your summon charm before then for a full refund."

"Remarkable. I need to get back to work. I'm going to tell some friends about this! Good day, humans!"

Once they had gotten some distance, Justin did I fist pump. "Yes! Our first member!"

Ilsa smiled. "There might be potential in this idea after all. Now we just have to deliver on it!"

"We need to buy more dynamic maps today," Justin said. "I wasn't expecting to sell a silver membership right away."

"It's a good sign. We just have to deliver on our promise. We also need to set up delivery zones."

"I was thinking the same thing. Okay, we'll buy more maps from Master Corvain this afternoon. For now, let's keep talking to people."

Their next pitch was to an elderly man who listened politely but shook his head. "I've got two good legs and plenty of time. Walking to shops is half my daily exercise. What would I do if everything came to my door?"

"But think of the convenience," Justin said. "What if you're stuck at home or sick?"

"Sick? Then I have my sons fetch me something. I don't need to pay for it!"

"Fair enough," Justin said. "Have a good day."

"I'll check out the store, though," the old man offered. "Good day to you."

A well-dressed varkiss merchant examined their flyer with interest. "Interesting concept, but I have exclusive arrangements with my current suppliers. Breaking those contracts would cost more than your convenience is worth."

"Certainly," Justin said, "but have you considered using this service personally? The appeal is a mobile store coming to you in two hours or less. Perfect for a successful Merchant already burdened with more important obligations."

"As a Merchant, I understand a good idea in theory, but I don't want to be a guinea pig for what amounts to a far-fetched scheme in practice. I wish you luck, however."

Their next approach was a harried mother balancing a toddler as she browsed goods. She practically snatched the flyer from Justin's hands after he had gotten two sentences into his pitch.

"Home delivery? Thank the Six! Do you carry children's fever remedies? Can you deliver today?"

Ravenna Alindra became their first bronze member after learning they stocked pediatric potions. Plus, she bought one on the spot for forty coppers.

"Just over five silvers earned!" Justin said once they had parted. "Looking good so far."

A suspicious-looking human, seemingly overhearing the exchange, chuckled. "This smells like Guild interference. Which organization is backing this operation?"

Justin flashed a winning smile. "We are independent, sir. Can we interest you in..."

But he was already wandering off, muttering something about "disrupting the natural order of things."

A teenage orc apprentice showed genuine excitement about the summoning charms until he heard the membership fee. "A silver fifty? That's more than I make in three days! Maybe when I'm a journeyman..."

Their harshest encounter came from a portly, well-dressed human Merchant examining imported spices. When Ilsa approached with her practiced greeting, he looked her up and down with undisguised contempt.

"Another street beggar with delusions of commerce," he sneered loudly, attracting the attention of nearby shoppers. "Let me guess—you've invented some miraculous new way to separate fools from their coin?"

Before either could respond, he snatched the flyer, tore it in half, and let the pieces flutter to the ground with a superior smile.

"Take your pathetic scheme back to whatever gutter spawned it. Real merchants don't need to grovel for customers in market squares."

The public humiliation drew stares from other shoppers. Ilsa's normally neutral face flushed crimson, and Justin saw her eyes begin to glisten with unshed tears as the Merchant turned back to his measurements.

"There's no need to be nasty, sir," Justin said.

He considered using his fire breath ability on him.

In the end, he turned to Ilsa, guiding her away. "Let's take a break."

They found a quiet spot near the fountain. Ilsa sat on the stone edge, staring at her hands.

"Maybe he's right," she said. "Maybe this whole idea is ridiculous..."

"Hey." Justin sat beside her, his voice gentle but firm. "That man's cruelty says nothing about our concept and everything about his character. You know what I saw? I saw someone so threatened by innovation that he had to tear us down publicly to feel secure."

"Justin, he didn't even read the flyer."

"Then it just proves my point. He doesn't know what he's talking about."

"But what if—"

"Ilsa, look at me." She reluctantly met his eyes. "We've signed up two members in half a day with a completely untested concept. That mother with the sick child? She understood immediately what we could offer her family. The orc merchant? She saw how this could improve her business and save her time, be a failsafe when she forgets to buy tonics for herself. Those are the people who matter, not some insecure bully."

"It just felt so..."

"Humiliating? Of course it was meant to be. But you know what's actually humiliating? Being so afraid of competition that you attack people trying something new instead of improving your own services."

Ilsa wiped her eyes, regaining some strength. "You really think we're onto something?"

"I think you've shown more courage this morning than that Merchant has in years. Anyone willing to publicly attack a new business is probably worried about competition."

A small smile tugged at the corner of Ilsa's mouth. "When you put it that way..."

"Ready to show Belmora what real customer service looks like?"

She stood tall. "Let's do it."

By late morning, they had signed up three bronze members, one silver, received a dozen promises to "think about it," and faced outright rejection from roughly thirty people, some as harsh as the Merchant. But this time, Ilsa didn't shed any tears.

"All right," Justin said, buying them lunch from a vendor who had purchased one of their memberships—two of the Belmoran "pizzas" they had eaten earlier that week. They set up near a fountain. "Analysis time. What patterns do you see?"

Ilsa consulted her notes, and Justin appreciated her thoroughness. "Several clear trends. First, busy people with established routines value convenience most—the orc and that mother, for instance. Second, our assumption about literacy was wrong. At least a quarter of potential customers can't read our flyers effectively. Also, people seem interested in the charms purely for their quality. It's a nice piece of jewelry, quite affordable. That it summons a mobile potions store is just a perk."

"Yes, I hadn't even considered that," Justin agreed. "The class angle is inconsistent, too. Some people care deeply about Songbrewer credentials; others couldn't care less. Perhaps not appreciating the rarity."

"Price sensitivity varies dramatically by apparent income level," Ilsa continued. "That apprentice was interested until he heard the cost. And there's definite suspicion about disrupting traditional commerce—several people worried we were some sort of Guild front."

"The age factor is interesting too," Justin noted. "Younger customers seem more open to new concepts, while older ones often prefer familiar routines."

"Our ideal customer profile is emerging," Ilsa said. "Educated, reasonably affluent, time-pressed individuals who value convenience and quality. The question is whether there are enough of them in Mudside to sustain the business."

"Or if we need to expand our target area sooner than planned," Justin replied. "That said, we need to establish delivery zones, as mentioned before. We sold four memberships and several potions without having to turn anyone away. That's encouraging."

"So the total made this morning... seven silvers, twenty coppers. Not bad at all. A good start."

Justin wondered how much of this was due to people's intrigue with the concept versus his own Charisma. His Charisma certainly wasn't hurting the situation.

"Let's head back to the store and check in. Then we can go to Master Corvian's shop to purchase some more dynamic maps."