All in Charisma (A LitRPG/Isekai Adventure)

Within minutes, they stood before the Vault entrance, its green shimmer casting an eerie glow across their faces in the afternoon light.

Justin accessed the Vault's details through his interface, the familiar blue text materializing in his vision.

[Vault Discovered: The Crimson Mine]

Recommended Party Level: 19
Current Party Average: 18.8
Risk Assessment: Normal. Your party is suitably equipped for this Vault.

Historical Background: In days of yore, this quarry provided a rich source of aether crystals for the Aranthian Queendom. Operations thrived for decades until, during the Aranthian Civil War, the mine fell into disrepair and was abandoned and forgotten.

More recently, a vampire took up residence in its deepest chambers, along with his thralls. Recent upheavals in the capital have caused production to resume, but for a more dangerous raw material...

Can your party serve as a beacon of hope in these perilous times? Can you destroy the vampire before his plans can be finalized?

Rewards Upon Successful Completion:

Experience Points: Scaled to individual party member level and contribution

Guaranteed Gold-Tier Weapon: Distributed among all party members

Gold Ascension Crystal: Awarded to the party member who demonstrates the greatest valor

Monetary Treasure: Gold, silver, and valuable gemstones to be pilfered within the mine itself.

[Do you accept the Vault's challenge?]

As they stood before the Vault entrance, Justin realized they hadn't properly introduced themselves as a party to Theric Wren.

"Before we proceed any further," he said, "we should make formal introductions. I'm Justin Talemaker, Level 21 Entrepreneur."

The others then introduced themselves. With that settled, Justin read through the Vault description carefully, noting several troubling details.

First, the Vault was Level 19, not Level 15 as Theric had mentioned. This changed the risk assessment dramatically. What had seemed like a manageable challenge for the younger nobles was now a potentially lethal encounter.

Second, the mention of "recent upheavals in the capital" felt ominous—possibly connected to the broader conspiracy the Templars were investigating.

"A vampire," Myrelle said after reading the description herself. "They're known to be exceptionally cunning opponents."

"This is well above my experience level," Celine said quietly, her earlier enthusiasm evaporating. "This isn't the straightforward adventure you promised, Mr. Talemaker."

"You're absolutely right," Justin replied gravely. "I cannot allow this to proceed in good conscience."

"Come now," Theric said, his demeanor sobering considerably at the mention of real danger. He was no longer swaying; his focus had sharpened. "I've dispatched a bloodsucker or three in my day. They're formidable, certainly—fierce in offense, wielders of deadly magic, and commanders of thralled minions. The ancient ones possess centuries of accumulated knowledge and cunning." He hiccuped softly. "Even in my current condition, I'm more than a match for this particular specimen."

"What's the most effective method for killing one?" Justin asked.

"Ah, that would be Chapter 46 of Theric's guide," Tennyson offered with pride. "Silver weapons and fire magic are the primary tools. Failing that, systematic dismemberment prevents regeneration."

Celine visibly shuddered at the clinical description.

"The rewards do seem remarkably generous," Myrelle observed. "A gold-tier weapon for everyone? And a gold Ascension Crystal? Such prizes are typically reserved for much more dangerous Vaults."

"Not to mention the monetary treasure," Tennyson added. "I'm more than in."

"It's already early afternoon," Celine protested. "I know time often slows when you're in a Vault, but that's not always the case. My father will be furious if he discovers I've been gone this long without proper escort... and into such a dangerous Vault!"

"Where's your sense of adventure?" Tennyson chided dismissively. "This is exactly the sort of opportunity we've been waiting for!"

Celine's expression hardened at the challenge. "The description mentions thralled miners. That means undead opponents."

Justin weighed the decision with growing unease. The Vault was definitely not worth the enormous risk involved. Yet everyone except Celine seemed eager for glory, and even she was wavering under peer pressure.

If they somehow managed to clear it, the social capital he would gain could prove invaluable for his mission. Completing this Vault alongside these nobles would cement the relationships he desperately needed. Shared mortal danger forged bonds that mere social interaction could never achieve.

Without Theric Wren's presence, he wouldn't even consider the attempt. But part of him wondered what it would be like to undertake a Vault expedition with such a legendary adventurer, even one as compromised as he was.

"Are we decided, then?" Theric asked.

"I'm committed," Myrelle declared confidently. "With Sir Wren with us and Justin's proven capabilities, this expedition is essentially free treasure and experience." She gave her cane an experimental flourish. "I'm tired of watching others claim glory from the sidelines."

"Agreed," Tennyson said, barely containing his excitement. "My father would never permit such an expedition." His smile turned wicked. "All the more reason to seize this opportunity."

Celine looked uncertain, but seeing her companions' confidence seemed to tip the balance. "All right, I'll commit. The Dungeon Delver class can extract parties from Vaults if circumstances become untenable, correct? In case we need to retreat quickly?"

Justin blinked in surprise; he hadn't realized that escape option existed.

"Indeed we can," Theric confirmed. "It's not foolproof, but with a Vault of this level, there will definitely be multiple exit strategies available. I'm glad that the younger generation retains the proper hunger for adventure!" He turned to Justin expectantly. "Which leaves you, Talemaker. What's your decision?"

Justin considered the situation. The disadvantages far outweighed any potential benefits. Yes, he could gain valuable social capital, along with useful loot and experience points.

But if even one of these nobles perished in the Vault, his mission would fail before it truly began, tarnishing his reputation beyond measure. His position remained too precarious to risk such devastating mistakes.

"What Celine originally observed is correct," he decided firmly. "A Level 10 Vault would be reasonable. Perhaps even Level 15, as you initially assessed, Sir Wren, might be manageable."

"The threat level must have escalated since yesterday," Theric said with a shrug. "It happens."

Justin wondered if his approach to the area had somehow influenced that escalation. The Prismatic Core seemed to affect reality in unpredictable ways.

"Nevertheless, Level 19 is higher than anything I'm willing to risk."

"And you claim to have adventured extensively in Northern Serenthel?" Tennyson scoffed derisively. "I suspected all those dramatic stories were merely bluster!"

Theric chuckled. "Actually, quite the opposite, Tennyson. A truly seasoned adventurer develops a healthy respect for danger. I take it you feel responsible for these young ones, Mr. Talemaker? Perhaps you've lost someone before? Aye, I know the feeling."

Justin nodded gravely. "I gave my word to return them safely to their families."

"And I absolutely refuse to abandon this Vault opportunity," Tennyson declared stubbornly. "That places you in a bind, doesn't it, Talemaker?"

Myrelle looked at Justin with growing concern. "I don't want to create problems, but this is Theric Wren. He could probably guide a small child safely through most Vaults."

"He's not operating at full capacity, Myrelle," Justin replied softly. "The Vault is more dangerous than he led us to believe. At this point, we're potentially..."

He almost said "enabling his self-destructive behavior," but he realized that would hurt Theric's pride and might turn the old adventurer against him. However, he was also starting to question what else the old adventurer could be hiding. They were part of the same party, which meant outright betrayal wasn't an option, but there always seemed to be a loophole—something unaccounted for.

"I stand with Tennyson on this matter," Theric said. "This is a chance for glory and riches. Besides, this vampire is a real threat that needs addressing."

"There is that public safety aspect to consider," Celine conceded reluctantly. "We'd be obligated to report this Vault's existence to the authorities. By the time they organize a proper response, the situation could deteriorate."

Justin had to acknowledge this angle as well. If they reported the Vault through official channels, would any effective action be taken? If the description was accurate, this Vault could indeed be connected to the Cult of Morvath.

Did he really want such intelligence potentially reaching Valdrik or his associates through bureaucratic channels? Was the Creator once again forcing his hand, adding that bit of information as bait to compel him to act?

And if he refused to participate, Tennyson seemed reckless enough to attempt the Vault with only Theric for support. Myrelle appeared committed as well. At best, he might convince Celine to retreat with him.

Justin closed his eyes. When he opened them, he had made his decision. If there was even a chance this was connected to his mission, he was bound to investigate. But he couldn't frame it in those terms.

"Against my better judgment," he said slowly, "I'll agree to this, but with non-negotiable conditions." He fixed each party member with a stern gaze. "First, we retreat immediately if circumstances become untenable—no heroics, no unnecessary risks. Second, Sir Wren provides tactical guidance, but I retain final authority over strategic decisions. Third, we maintain tight formation and proper communication at all times. Everyone sticks to their roles and follows orders."

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He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "And finally, if anyone questions my leadership during the expedition, we abort immediately using Wren's skill. I won't risk lives due to injured pride or reckless ambition."

Theric nodded approvingly. "Sound leadership principles, lad. Those conditions are perfectly reasonable."

"Agreed," Myrelle said, though Justin noticed a flicker of excitement in her eyes that concerned him.

"Fine by me," Tennyson said.

Celine simply nodded.

Justin let out a breath. These nobles truly had no comprehension of what they were walking into. They had spent their entire lives insulated by wealth, protected by guards, and cushioned by privilege. The idea that something might genuinely want them dead—not for ransom, not for political leverage, but simply to feed—hadn't truly penetrated their understanding.

They believed their noble blood made them inherently superior, that equipment purchased with family fortunes could substitute for hard-won experience, and that confidence born of social dominance would somehow translate to survival in mortal combat. Tennyson's eagerness reminded Justin of a child playing with wooden swords, convinced the game rules would protect him from real consequences.

Even Myrelle, who was better than the rest in terms of practical experience, had likely never faced anything that couldn't be reasoned with, bribed, or socially maneuvered around. Even when she had gotten herself in dire straits in the Floating Market, Justin had leapt to her rescue. And Celine, for all her father's geological knowledge, had probably never ventured more than a day's ride from civilization.

Yet here they stood, ready to descend into a vampire's lair based on little more than inherited arrogance and misplaced faith in their social standing.

And he and a drunken legend he had little faith in were supposed to keep them all alive.

But at the same time, stepping back now would mean starting over and cultivating a new set of nobles. He might be able to salvage Myrelle, but it wouldn't be the same. It would be an uphill battle, and time was running out with Valdrik and the larger conspiracy.

With a heavy sigh, Justin reached toward the green barrier, then paused one last time. "Last chance for anyone to reconsider."

When no one stepped back, he pressed his hand against the shimmering surface. "Then let's see what awaits us in The Crimson Mine."

With a mental push, Justin accepted the challenge.

[You have accepted the Challenge of The Crimson Mine. May courage be your guide and resolve your shield, Brave Adventurers. Good luck.]

The party walked through the barrier. They found themselves in a wide cavern that faded into impenetrable darkness beyond the limits of natural vision.

Justin turned his cane's enchantment to maximum brightness, casting everything in a blue glow. It wasn't perfect, but it should prove sufficient.

"No need for that," Theric said dismissively.

Almost immediately, the entire chamber became brilliantly illuminated, as if light itself had been infused into every crack and crevice of the stone. It was like flipping a light switch. The magical radiance revealed details that would have been impossible to discern by Justin's cane light alone.

"That's remarkably convenient," Celine said. "I was wondering how we'd manage to fight with Justin's paltry light."

Justin ignored the jibe.

"My Delver's Light skill," Theric explained. "Practically essential for serious Vault exploration."

In the magical illumination, Justin surveyed their surroundings. Before him lay a large chamber that appeared to have been abandoned for decades, if not longer. Ornate candelabra mounted in wall sconces stood long extinguished and thick with dust. Numerous wooden crates and storage chests were scattered throughout the space, most split open and empty. A set of mining rails stretched deeper into the cavern system, while several human skeletons were strewn about.

"Potential loot," Tennyson said eagerly, striding toward the nearest remains. He paused beside a dusty skeleton that still clutched a corroded blade. Justin's monocle indicated the weapon bore no enchantments and thus wasn't worth precious pack space. Tennyson collected it anyway, the sword disappearing smoothly into his storage without physical contact. His pack clearly had an auto-loot ability. "This will make an interesting conversation piece."

Theric paused beside the enthusiastic young lord. "You've barely scratched the surface, lad. Keep your awareness sharp. Run as many Vaults as I have, and you'll develop instincts for these things."

"What are your instincts telling you about this particular Vault, Sir Wren?" Myrelle asked.

Theric stood motionless for several moments, his expression growing serious as the signs of previous intoxication faded. "This one's going to test us properly. Expect sudden ambushes and psychological warfare. An extensive undead presence is almost certain. As Tennyson pointed out, if anyone carries fire-based weapons or actual silver, now would be the time to prepare them."

"Do you mean silver-tier equipment or literal silver?" Celine inquired.

"Literal silver. It won't guarantee victory, but it will make the fights considerably more manageable. The wise adventurer always carries a silver or fire-based weapon." His experienced gaze settled on Justin. "You've been unusually quiet, Talemaker."

Justin continued assessing the chamber's tactical possibilities. Nothing appeared immediately threatening, but that could change in an instant. "Just absorbing the tactical situation, Sir Wren."

"Wise approach. We'll need to advance deeper soon enough. I'll follow your lead as agreed."

Justin nodded and used his summoning ring, materializing Atlas beside him. The construct appeared with its characteristic mechanical chirp of acknowledgment.

The nobles seemed genuinely surprised by the construct's reappearance.

"Your mount can fight as well?" Tennyson asked.

"Of course," Justin confirmed, topping off Atlas with a fresh aether crystal. "Atlas is highly capable."

"That's no ordinary mount," Theric observed. "It reminds me of the mechanical guardians I encountered in an Atelinar Vault years ago, beneath the Misty Range. Those constructs were formidable opponents—precise, relentless, and surprisingly intelligent."

Atlas whirred with what sounded like mechanical indignation at being compared to enemies.

"Easy, Atlas," Justin said.

Justin made a mental note to discuss that Vault with Theric later. Someone with his experience might have encountered another Founder city and could possess valuable knowledge about connections to Earth.

But immediate survival was more important.

"Here's our basic plan," Justin announced. "Atlas and I will serve as primary tanks, drawing enemy attention. The rest of you should focus on eliminating targets efficiently. No one here seems to have dedicated healing, so I hope you brought plenty of potions. Keep them within easy reach. Beyond that, follow orders exactly. Engage targets I call out, and if you draw unwanted attention, let me know immediately." He paused, meeting each party member's eyes. "Any questions?"

The chamber fell silent, interrupted only by the distant echo of dripping water somewhere in the depths.

Theric watched Justin with barely concealed amusement. "Lead on, then. Let's see what horrors await us."

Justin complied, with Atlas scuttling at his side. So far, Theric's Adventurer's Guile hadn't triggered, indicating it was at least somewhat safe to proceed.

As they followed the mining tunnel deeper into the earth, the air grew thick and stagnant, carrying the metallic taste of old blood and something else—something that made Justin's skin crawl without explanation. The magical light from Theric's skill revealed rail tracks stretching into the darkness ahead, but the metal was stained with rust that looked suspiciously dark in places.

Every few dozen steps, they passed empty mining carts overturned at odd angles. Personal belongings lay strewn about—a crushed lantern here, a torn boot there, a worker's cap soaked in something that had dried to a blackish stain decades ago.

"What's interesting," Theric said quietly, his voice strangely muffled in the silence, "is that Delver's Light creates no actual illumination. We're walking in complete darkness here."

Myrelle's eyes widened at this revelation. "Seriously?"

Theric nodded. "Many creatures that think they can't be seen will approach openly, making them easier to kill. I'm quite surprised nothing has emerged yet."

"Is that making you nervous?" Tennyson asked, his casual tone clearly attempting to mask his own fear.

Theric chuckled. "Not really."

Justin would be lying to himself if he didn't admit to feeling unsettled. A vampire in this dark mine, with Theric as their only source of light that wasn't actually light? What if the old adventurer was incapacitated or they became separated? Justin supposed he had Vorthak's Flame along with his cane, but he preferred not to reveal that if possible.

For now, he had Seraphis's Clarity active for the evasion boost.

The tunnel curved gently downward, with narrow branching passages at regular intervals. Some had collapsed entirely, while others offered just enough space for single-file passage. Justin was determined not to head that way unless absolutely necessary.

Celine whimpered softly. "I'm really starting to regret this—"

Suddenly, a screech and flutter of wings erupted from above as a swarm of sharp-fanged bats descended from the ceiling.

The nobles froze as Justin unleashed a blast of Drake's Breath, turning the air crystalline while Atlas stabbed at the stragglers with his forward struts.

Within seconds, frozen bat corpses littered the tunnel floor as Atlas crushed them one by one.

"Impressive," Theric said approvingly. "Clean work."

No thanks to you, Justin thought.

Justin turned to the wide-eyed nobles. "This is what I mean about being prepared. The vampire will be exponentially more dangerous."

Celine stood close to Justin, visibly shaking. "I... I..." She shook her head. "I don't do bats."

"I'll be all right," Myrelle said, though her voice trembled slightly. "Let Justin and Theric handle the dangerous ones."

Justin felt a sinking sensation in his gut. If this was how they reacted to a swarm of low-level bats, how would they fare against the vampire?

He didn't want to think about the answer.

"Make no mistake," Justin said firmly. "We all need to pull our weight." He nodded toward the dark tunnel ahead. "It's time to keep moving. The only way out is through."

They pressed deeper, with Theric falling into step beside him. Justin tried to ignore the lingering smell of alcohol on the older man's breath. "That was impressive reaction time, lad. I should've been more alert."

"Yes, you should have. I hope your faculties will return by the time we meet the vampire."

"No worries there," Theric said. "I was ready to step in at a moment's notice. But when it comes to the vampire, fear not. I'll hold nothing back."

Eventually, their progress was blocked by a pool of stagnant water that stretched across the entire width of the tunnel. A steady drip from the ceiling fed into it—clearly the source of all the echoing sounds they had been hearing. The passage seemed to continue underwater, but there was no way to tell how deep it went or what might be lurking beneath the murky surface.

"I have a water-breathing amulet," Theric offered reluctantly. "Not that I'm volunteering."

"We need your light," Tennyson replied quickly. "That's out of the question."

"I suppose we'll have to try one of those side passages," Myrelle suggested, gesturing back toward the branching tunnels they had passed. "The Vault description mentioned that the vampire was in the deepest chambers. We must be close if we've reached the water table."

"Agreed," Tennyson said, his tone forced with false confidence. "One of the side tunnels it is."

"I don't like this," Justin admitted, his unease growing. "Theric, you mentioned having a way out? I think we've had more than enough adventure for one day."

"Please," Celine added desperately. "Let's leave now."

Instead of complying, Theric smiled with amusement. "But we've barely had a proper fight yet."

Justin silently cursed himself. He should have secured a Gentleman's Agreement with the old adventurer before entering. Now, Theric held all the leverage.

"I wouldn't be opposed to leaving," Tennyson said hesitantly. "But at the same time, you made quick work of those bats. If you can handle the vampire half as well, what do we really have to fear?"

Justin could only shake his head in frustration. "Theric, let's negotiate. What would it take for you to use your escape ability?"

"There's not enough coin in all of Eyrth," Theric said with absolute conviction. "I live for adventure, boy. I have a feeling this one will be a good one. I've cleared a few Vaults in recent years, but none of them ever made me feel anything like... like..."

"Like what?" Celine asked.

Theric paused, considering, then smiled. "Like I might actuallydie."

Myrelle's eyes widened in alarm. "You're saying this Vault is making you feel that way?"

Theric chuckled with dark satisfaction. "Maybe. Just a little. That's what makes it worthwhile—better loot, more experience points."

"At the potential cost of your life, Theric," Justin said. "And ours."

"What's a life, really?" Theric mused, his voice adopting a philosophical tone. "I've lived longer than most men ever dream of. I've accumulated wealth, fame, knowledge—everything society claims matters. But what good is existence without purpose? Without the thrill that reminds you you're alive, the splash of blood on your face?" His gaze grew distant. "I'd rather die gloriously in the depths than waste away in some tavern, forgotten and useless. At least here, my death might mean something." He looked at Justin seriously. "Are you comfortable with death, Justin?"

"No, I'm not. I enjoy living." He paused, recalling his time in the Nether Realm. "And something tells me I've been much closer to death than anyone here, including you, Theric."

The old adventurer snorted. "Ha! Well, we'll see about that. We haven't faced real danger yet. And until we do, we're staying."

Justin realized he wouldn't convince the old man. Then there was the matter of investigating a potential connection to the Cult of Morvath. Leaving could be just as much a mistake.

They simply had to survive this situation.

[Danger lurks nearby.]

Justin barely had time to register the notification when a thunderous splash echoed through the tunnel. A massive tentacle erupted from the water, wrapping around Celine's waist. Her screams filled the air as it dragged her toward the murky depths.

"Oh, no you don't!" Theric roared.

An amulet materialized in his hand as if from nowhere, and he quickly donned it before diving into the churning, dark water with surprising grace for his age.

"Dear gods!" Myrelle gasped, her face draining of color. "What was that? Celine!"

"Lady Celine!" Tennyson shouted. "Celine!"

They waited in tense silence. Justin stood ready with Atlas at his side, but nothing emerged from the water for ten agonizing seconds. Then twenty.

Then thirty. The water was starting to go still.

"Oh no," Tennyson said, looking back up the passage.

Justin noticed the range of Theric's Delver's Light growing painfully smaller. He had been so focused on the water that he hadn't even thought to check their light source.

Within seconds, it was gone, plunging them into absolute darkness.