All in Charisma (A LitRPG/Isekai Adventure)

Not an hour later, Queen Grizshara returned to the throne room, accompanied by everyone except Zildur, who stayed behind to tend to Nyrissa.

"This is the only thing I would leave my daughter's side for," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "To thank the three of you for unraveling this conspiracy. And, of course, my thanks to Borgruk for his assistance. I never would have imagined it was Zogmar instead of my sister, but his possession of the Moonflower confirms everything. He always seemed professional, but in hindsight, there was a certain coldness to him. I don't think he ever forgave me for granting my sister the Alchemist core. Which, as I'm about to reveal, is truly a shame."

Justin nodded in understanding but remained silent. While Glamshara had damaged her reputation by prioritizing the Everlasting Draught over her niece's life, she had redeemed herself somewhat by brewing the antidote.

"Nyrissa is on the mend," Grizshara continued. "The antidote has been administered, and when I left her, she was sitting up in bed, eating a bowl of soup."

"That's wonderful news," Justin said.

"And now, no doubt, you're wondering about your rewards. For it wasn't only potions and ghosts that we found at the excavation site."

Justin shifted his weight in anticipation.

Glamshara stepped forward from her position beside Grizshara. "We discovered several valuable items down there and brought them back in the cart. However, there was one item I kept secret from the others. This I entrusted to my sister."

Grizshara nodded, and Justin's curiosity piqued. This must be the rare item indicated by the Vault itself.

Borgruk and Ralthog approached, carrying a large wooden chest, which they set down and opened.

The Queen rose from her throne and reached into the chest, pulling out a large shield. Intricate geometric patterns, likely of dwarven craftsmanship, were etched into its surface. The metal gleamed with a soft glow, and the runic engravings seemed to shift as the light hit them.

"Our Enchanter has already identified these items, including their Aethereal names and levels," Grizshara explained.

Justin assumed "Aethereal name" referred to the System's designation for magical items, names that only Enchanters or special equipment could detect.

Grizshara continued, holding the shield aloft. "This is the Shield of Bashing, a gold-tier shield. It goes to Bohemond. It triples your Power Attribute while using your Shield Bash skill and reduces its cooldown by 30%."

Bohemond stepped forward and took the shield, slinging his old one behind his back. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Next, she reached into the chest again and produced a thick, amber-colored ring, its surface polished and resembling solidified honey. "This is for Kargan, the Blood Warden. It's called the Ring of Knives, a gold-tier accessory that allows you to cast the Chaos Magic spell Knives of Fury up to your level each day."

Justin couldn't help but be impressed. That spell would give Kargan offensive capabilities despite his defensive class—something they sorely needed. At Level 6, Kargan could use the spell six times a day. Justin looked forward to seeing it in action.

Kargan accepted the ring with a nod. "Thank you, Queen Grizshara."

At last, the Queen turned to Justin, and his heart raced. He hoped for an enchanted leg piece—his only missing slot of magical gear.

"Your reward," Grizshara said, a small smile on her lips, "is something far better than a piece of gear."

Justin raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean, Queen Grizshara?"

It was Glamshara who produced a vial from her satchel. Inside, the liquid shimmered with an array of iridescent colors, as though it contained the essence of a rainbow. "This is the All-Encompassing Draught. While it's not as powerful as the Everlasting Draught, it will be valuable on your journey. I recommend you have it appraised by a reputable Alchemist before consuming it. While I'm not skilled enough to say what it will do, it's likely to provide a powerful benefit that will stay with you for the rest of your days. That said, there could be some side effects, so it's best to learn more from a Master Alchemist, as I mentioned before."

Justin accepted the potion, intrigued. "Thank you, Glamshara."

Despite Glamshara's words, he couldn't help but feel a bit underwhelmed. The others had received powerful gear, while he had been given a potion of uncertain potency. It might prove useful, but it offered no immediate advantage. Unless, of course, he drank it first without getting it looked at, which would be foolish.

Before he could dwell on it, Queen Grizshara spoke again. "And that's not all. I have one last gift for Justin, whose sharp mind was crucial in solving this mystery."

She reached into the chest once more and drew out an object that caused everyone in the room to gasp. It was an orb glowing with an intense, pure blue light. The icon of a vial, suspended within it, identified it as an Alchemist Core.

"Ironic, isn't it?" Grizshara said, her voice tinged with amusement. "Had you not uncovered Zogmar's treachery, this core would have gone to him. He likely didn't know my sister found it during the excavation, too focused on his own dark thoughts. But given the circumstances, it's only fitting that this reward goes to you. You not only saved my daughter but also exposed the true mastermind behind the plot."

"Wow," Kargan said, turning to Justin. "Congratulations."

Even Bohemond nodded in approval.

Justin accepted the core, marveling at the raw potential it held. As a Level 9, he couldn't use it yet, but it would be an invaluable asset once he leveled up enough. His mind raced with possibilities. Could his Socialite Prismatic Core fuse with this to create a new class? Would that opportunity be available to him now, or would he have to wait until Level 20? Perhaps the best move would be to sell it and earn a substantial sum of gold.

He tucked it into his pack.

"Thank you, Queen Grizshara," Justin said, bowing low.

"No," Grizshara replied with a smile. "Thank you. You and your companions have my eternal gratitude. If there's anything else you need, just ask."

"Actually," Justin said, straightening up, "there is one thing. We're being chased by a very dangerous man—a high-level Lexicant, along with his classed followers. They likely know we're here and are waiting for us to leave."

Grizshara's expression turned serious. "Yes, we are aware of the party gathered outside the palace. I've already begun preparing my warriors and have requested aid from neighboring tribes. Our Goddess saw fit to turn our situation into a Vault, but once its magic fades, there may be conflict. However, you shouldn't lose heart. There is a moving floor in the Underdeep nearby. Borgruk and Ralthog can escort you there. You should reach it by late evening. The floor's magic still works, and it will take you to the surface."

"Seriously?" Justin asked, surprised by the offer.

Grizshara nodded. "You'll find yourselves in the Seraphim Range, a much safer place than the ruins of Drakendir, though still quite dangerous, especially as the weather turns cold."

"That's great news," Justin said. "One more thing. Have you heard any news about two other humans? A middle-aged male Ranger and a younger female Bard. We were separated when a tunnel collapsed."

Grizshara nodded. "Yes, my scouts reported seeing two humans matching that description. They were not attacked since they haven't encroached on our territory. You likely have no reason to fear. Their path, called Filgur's Tunnel, leads upward to the same valley where the moving floor will take you. Assuming they stay in the main tunnel, you should be reunited soon."

That was perfect. Eldrin could use Shadowflight to track them down once they were above ground, assuming they followed the tunnel out. "And what about the Lexicant? Will your tribe be able to hold off his forces?"

"There are far more of us than them. If he's wise, he'll retreat. If not, he'll be overwhelmed."

Assuming all went well, they would be far ahead of Valdrik by then. Justin could almost taste freedom.

"Thank you for everything," he said. "We should probably get going."

"Of course," Grizshara replied. "Good luck in your adventures."

[The Vault honors your triumph. Now go forth with courage in your hearts, strength in your limbs, and wisdom in your minds.]

[The Trial of the Vault is complete!]

[Experience Gained: 1,000]

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

[Your experience stands at 1,659/1,590 (Level-up available!)]

Justin blinked at the notification. Not only had he gained a powerful potion and a class core, but he would also level up to 10 upon his next sleep—an important milestone, as it meant unlocking his Class Focus. He wasn't sure what that entailed yet, but he knew he would find out soon enough.

For now, though, the priority was getting out of Drakendir.

Borgruk and Ralthog approached, but it was Borgruk who spoke. "All packed and ready?"

Justin nodded. "The Vault's magic should last about an hour, which gives us enough time to get a head start."

"We should leave immediately," Borgruk said. "There are many paths to the moving floor, and I don't know if your enemies have mapped them. If they have, they could still catch up. We also need to watch out for the constructs; if we engage them in a fight, it will attract others. Stealth is our best option."

"Got it. Lead the way," Justin replied.

Borgruk and Ralthog guided them toward the Underdeep Gate. It was high time to leave Drakendir and reunite with the others.

As their guides navigated through the darkness, Kargan sidled up to Justin.

"Any plans for what to do with the core?"

Bohemond seemed to catch their conversation as he walked a little ahead.

"I'm not sure yet. It's still a ways until Level 20, and that's a long time to hold onto a class core."

"I'd sell it if I were you," Bohemond suggested, his voice low. "Alchemist Cores are quite valuable."

"How valuable?" Justin asked, intrigued.

"They sell for 80 gold or more, depending on the market."

Justin raised his brows. "That's a lot of dosh."

Bohemond nodded slowly. "Most dealers who handle those kinds of items won't give you that much upfront. At best, you might get 50 or 60 gold. It depends on your haggling skills."

"That's what I've invested in my Charisma for, right?"

Bohemond shrugged casually. "Anyone who sells class cores usually has enough gold to invest in the Merchant Class. That class grants them boons and skills designed for haggling. Trust me, it puts you at a disadvantage. That's why many people go through an agent when trying to sell high-value items. You don't want to haggle with a Merchant! They'll fleece you before you even realize what happened."

Justin recalled Reginald Fairfax, the Merchant who had almost laughed him out of the store when he tried to bargain over a few silvers—at least until he had learned about the Amulet of Equilibrium.

"Do either of you know if a Socialite Core and an Alchemist Core combine?"

"I'm not sure," Kargan said, his tusks protruding in thought. "Socialite is a Charisma-based class, while Alchemist is Intellect-based. It might be worth researching later when we're out of here. Not every combination is valid, even if they belong to different Core Attributes."

"Quiet down," Borgruk warned. "We're entering a dangerous area."

They fell silent. A couple of hours passed in the dark depths of the Underdeep. Twice, they encountered isolated spider constructs, but between the five of them, it was easy to take them down. Ralthog's raw strength surprised Justin. The goblin could have easily soloed the enemies, and the way he moved—precise and deliberate, even performing quick flips to add momentum to his swings—indicated he had a Power class of some sort.

During the second fight, Bohemond showcased his improved Shield Bash skill, strong enough to force the spider back into the wall, spraying a shower of sparks. Kargan didn't use his new spell from his ring, probably because it wasn't necessary. It was better to save it for later, in case it was needed.

Both Bohemond and Kargan announced they would level up as well, bringing Bohemond to Level 11 and Kargan to Level 7.

"So, Bohemond," Justin asked, "I know you're a Knight, but what's your Focus, if you don't mind sharing? I'll be getting my Focus with my next level."

"Aspirant of Arion," Bohemond said proudly.

"And what does that do?" Justin inquired.

"Well, I receive various blessings from Arion as I level up. It's the proper Focus for a Knight who wants to become a Paladin."

"Wait," Justin said. "I thought a Paladin was a combination of a Warrior and a Cleric core."

"There are several ways to become a Paladin," Bohemond said. "You can start as a Warrior or Cleric, but you also have the option to begin as a Knight, Barbarian, Monk, or Lancer. Instead of combining your core with a Cleric, you could merge with a Priest Core instead. Alternatively, you can start as a Cleric or Priest and combine with the cores I mentioned earlier. While all of these paths lead to becoming a Paladin, each one is unique, shaped by how an individual develops their core. The boons and skills you acquire are influenced by your choices. No class is ever the same, depending on who wields it."

"I see," Justin replied. "Interesting."

Eventually, they reached a long tunnel that ended in a plain stone wall. As they drew closer, Kargan's Sacrificial Armor spell revealed a tall vertical shaft with a circular platform embedded in the floor. Enchanted glowing runes adorned its surface, and a low hum resonated beneath their feet.

"This is it," Borgruk said, turning to face the humans.

"How do we operate it?" Justin asked, eyeing the platform.

"Simple enough." Borgruk pointed to a small, glowing blue crystal nestled in a slot. "See that crystal? Remove it and place it in the slot that corresponds to where you want to go."

Justin circled the platform, noticing that at least thirty such slots encircled its edges, each marked with a rune he couldn't decipher. The stone was currently positioned in a slot near the middle.

Borgruk continued, "The leftmost rune is for the highest level—it will take you to the surface. The rightmost rune… well, that's the bottom. Trust me, you don't want to go there."

Justin raised an eyebrow. "Why not?"

"You'll end up dying, that's why," Borgruk replied. "These crystals lose charge and take time to recharge. Put it in the surface slot and hope there's enough power to get you all the way up."

The ominous tone in his voice unsettled Justin. "Got it. Surface it is."

"Good luck," Ralthog grunted. "We need to return to the tribe now."

"Thanks," Justin said.

He felt uncertain about whether the goblins could stand against the Baron, and a sense of guilt washed over him for leading them right to the goblins' doorstep. But if Grizshara was right, they had the means to repel him.

Borgruk and Ralthog left, their footsteps fading as Justin moved to the blue crystal. He hesitated for a moment, a small, reckless voice in the back of his mind wondering what treasures lay at the bottom. There were likely high-level Vaults with amazing loot.

Damn intrusive thoughts.

"Hurry it up, Justin," Bohemond urged.

Justin shook off the temptation and slotted the crystal into the rune for the surface.

The grated doors of the elevator slid shut with a screech, dislodging dust and rust from the stone walls. This thing hadn't been used in a long time.

For a moment, nothing happened. Then, with a low groan, the floor shifted beneath them, and they began to rise.

"Praise Arion," Bohemond muttered under his breath.

The elevator picked up speed, the air growing cooler as they ascended. The walls of the shaft blurred as they shot past. After several seconds, they began passing various floors, each offering a brief but intriguing glimpse of what lay beyond. One floor revealed a vast cavern, littered with ancient dwarven machinery, its purpose long forgotten. Another opened to a subterranean lake, glowing with bioluminescent plants that bobbed on the water's surface. A third floor showcased a grand hall with towering statues of long-dead dwarven rulers, their stone faces weathered yet regal, as though judging those who passed by. Several of the floors contained the telltale green shimmer of a Vault.

Justin had the uncomfortable thought that if this were a movie, this would be the part where the elevator stopped for no reason, forcing them to fight unending hordes of monsters or the undead. But dwarven craftsmanship was apparently top-notch; the elevator continued its ascent without incident.

As the minutes ticked by and the pressure in his ears popped, Justin realized just how far underground they had been. Part of him couldn't help but wonder: Did Eldrin and Lila make it? What if they had stayed behind to search for them? Would they think to head to the surface, or were they mounting a rescue mission even now?

Justin decided they could explore the valley above for a day or two before making any final decisions.

At last, the air grew biting cold as the elevator slowed to a halt inside a small stone pavilion. The ancient, weathered building was designed to shelter the elevator shaft and resembled an old shrine—squat and sturdy, its stone walls adorned with faint carvings of dwarven runes. The gate grated open, revealing the wilderness beyond.

Before them lay a steep cliff, with a narrow, treacherous staircase winding down into an evergreen-forested valley below, blanketed in snow and bathed in the silvery glow of moonlight. The icy wind howled through the trees, sending shivers down Justin's spine.

"We need some shelter," Bohemond said. "This wind is cutting right through. Even with a fire, we won't last long up here."

"I've half a mind to go down one floor, if only for the night," Kargan replied, his voice hesitant as he glanced back at the elevator.

"Too risky," Bohemond countered. "I'll take the cold over whatever unknowns lie in the dwarven tunnels."

Justin surveyed his immediate surroundings, but it was far too steep for a suitable camp.

"That leaves the valley," Justin said, nodding toward the stairs. "But walking down there in the dark? That seems like a bad idea."

They stood in silence, pondering their options. The realization soon hit Justin like a cold slap: Eldrin had most of the camping supplies.

Without a fire, the cold would sap their strength and could even kill them. They needed fire, fuel, and shelter—none of which was in sight. The forest below was their only hope, but it would take hours to reach, and navigating it in the dark was far too dangerous. The horrors of the Darkwood were fresh in Justin's memory, and he felt that the forest down there was even more perilous.

"I don't like it," Bohemond said after a long silence, "but we could sleep in the elevator shaft itself. We've got the crystal, so no one else can use it. It'll keep us out of the wind, at least."

Justin's instincts screamed against the idea. But what were their alternatives? Hiking into the valley meant battling the cold, building an impossible fire, and hoping they didn't encounter any dangerous creatures or monsters. According to Eldrin, the Seraphim Mountains were treacherous.

"Maybe one floor down," Justin said after a moment. "It can't be too dangerous this close to the surface, right? We can set a watch, and if anything seems off, we'll get back on the elevator."

Kargan grimaced but nodded. "I don't like it either, but we have little choice. I'll cast my Blood Aegis at our campsite. It'll give us some protection, at least. I can take the first watch."

Justin considered Bohemond's suggestion of staying in the elevator shaft, but the thought of someone or something recalling the elevator from below, trapping them, made his blood run cold. The crystal was the only mechanism he knew to move the elevator, but it was likely that the elevator could be recalled from any level. It would be pretty useless otherwise. Justin understood this basic function of elevators from growing up on Earth, unlike Kargan or Bohemond.

No, they needed to find a safer spot underground. He wondered what Eldrin would do in this situation, though it hardly mattered now. Eldrin's skills would have allowed them to stay warm on the surface, well-hidden from any dangers.

"Down we go," Justin said.

He removed the crystal and slotted it into the next level down. The elevator shuddered to life, descending. His heart raced as it came to a stop about a minute later, revealing the new floor.

The gates opened to a cavernous chamber, lit by soft, glowing fungi that clung to the walls. At first glance, the space seemed promising—a wide, open area with natural rock formations providing cover. The air was still, warmer than the surface, though a faint draft suggested some kind of ventilation. There were no immediate signs of danger. The far side of the cavern disappeared into shadow, and Justin couldn't shake the feeling that something might be lurking beyond the light.

"This will do for tonight," Bohemond said, his eyes scanning the cavern. "Better than freezing to death up there."

They set to work, making a hasty camp. Kargan cast his Blood Aegis while Justin and Bohemond cleared a small space near one of the rock formations. They gathered what little fuel they could find, mostly dried fungi, and started a meager fire. It was enough to stave off the cold, at least.

They shared another meal of boar meat, which Justin was growing sick of. At this point, it was just fuel to keep going, nothing more.

As Kargan sat on a nearby rock, Justin settled down to sleep. He watched Bohemond lie down, noting something in his expression that suggested he was brooding.

"Are you okay, Bohemond?"

The Knight's eyes widened for a moment. "Yes, Justin. May Arion watch over you."

The Knight turned around, preparing for sleep.

Justin was too tired to ponder it further. The next day would bring him to Level 10 and, hopefully, news of the others.