What happened next was something Justin did not expect.

  A portal opened in front of the Keeper Crystal, with the same appearance as the one that had first brought him to Eyrth.

  His heart skipped a beat at the sight. He knew it wasn't going to take him back home, but given the location and the fact that the Founders were from Earth, the possibility existed, however small.

  "A gateway," Lila said. "That's got to be where the rewards are, right?"

  Justin was about to step forward to check it out when an ethereally glowing armor set floated through. It was forest-green leather armor with bronze accents, featuring a hood and cloak that seemed to shift against the ethereal background behind it.

  Words appeared above it:

  The Founders' Pathfinder's Vestments

  Tier: Gold

  Focus Restriction: Pathfinder

  Attribute Bonuses: +8 Coordination, +4 Power, +4 Endurance, +4 Intellect, +4 Perception.

  Cleansing Stroll: Clothes naturally clean themselves as the Ranger walks. Heals all but the most virulent poisons over time.

  Chameleon Weave: Clothing blends with the Ranger's background when they will it.

  Pathfinder's Gaze: Once per hour, gain insight into the closest sources of food, water, and shelter, as well as their distances.

  Justin's eyes widened at those bonuses. Twenty-four attribute points was insane, but maybe that was due to the gold level of the set.

  Eldrin accepted the bundle. Though he didn't have an upgraded Ring of Hygiene like Justin, it seemed the magic of the Vault allowed him to switch into his new gear immediately. An aura of light surrounded him, revealing the Ranger standing in his new verdant armor.

  "That's definitely a step up from your old gear," Justin said.

  Eldrin examined his new gauntlets with a rare smile. "Indeed. This will make the journey forward much safer, no matter where we end up." He flexed his arms, testing the armor's give. "Surprisingly comfortable.”

  Next, a new set came out of the portal. This one gleamed with deep blue and silver fabric that caught the light beautifully. Justin could see ornate sleeves with what looked like hidden pockets and a pair of fingerless gloves. The outfit was completed by a delicate silver circlet that seemed to capture and reflect the surrounding light.

  Justin read the description:

  The Founders' Juggler’s Vestments

  Tier: Gold

  Focus Restriction: Bard

  Set Attribute Bonuses: +8 Charisma, +4 Power, +4 Coordination, +4 Intellect, +4 Perception.

  Cleansing Stroll: Clothes naturally clean themselves as the Bard walks. Heals all but the most virulent poisons over time.

  Silence Proof: Your words cannot be silenced or interrupted by any hostile force.

  Nimble Step: Your footfalls make no noise unless you will it, nor will they trigger traps.

  Justin nodded with approval as Lila donned the armor, replacing the desert set she'd picked up. All the enchantments were useful, but the Silence Proof seemed especially potent for a Bard, while the Nimble Step would come in handy when exploring dangerous environments.

  Next came what had to be Emberlyn's haul—a set of deep crimson robes with golden embroidery along the hem. The fabric seemed to shift of its own accord, and it came with matching gauntlets adorned with rubies. A circlet with a prominent red gemstone completed the ensemble.

  Justin read the description:

  The Founders' Pyromancer's Raiment

  Tier: Gold

  Focus Restriction: Pyromancer

  Set Attribute Bonuses: +8 Perception, +4 Coordination, +4 Endurance, +4 Intellect, +4 Spirit, +4 Charisma.

  Cleansing Stroll: Clothes naturally clean themselves as the Sorceress walks. Heals all but the most virulent poisons over time.

  Flame Weaver: Allows greater control of flame shaping, enabling you to fine-tune the power and speed of your attacks.

  Bounty of Vorthak: Fire spells consume 30% less ether. Once per day, completely refill your ether reserves.

  Justin whistled softly. The Bounty of Vorthak alone was game-changing. Combined with the enhanced control from Flame Weaver, Emberlyn would be a force to be reckoned with.

  Finally, Justin's own reward emerged from the portal—a deep burgundy tailcoat with ether crystal buttons that glowed with inner light. The ensemble included perfectly creased trousers, white gloves, polished leather boots, and a top hat with a crimson band that matched the coat perfectly.

  The Founder's Gentleman's Regalia

  Tier: Gold

  Focus Restriction: Gentleman

  Set Attribute Bonuses: +8 Charisma, +4 Power, +4 Coordination, +4 Endurance, +4 Intellect.

  Cleansing Stroll: Clothes naturally clean themselves as the Gentleman walks. Heals all but the most virulent poisons over time.

  Gentleman's Resolve: Complete immunity to intimidation and mind control effects. You may break free from all Stun effects once per hour, gaining immunity from Stun for one minute afterward.

  Cock of the Walk: Doubles the effect of Dandy's Swagger. Stuns most common-tier enemies within ten meters for three seconds.

  Justin reached out, feeling the material of his new outfit. It was simultaneously lighter and more substantial than anything he had worn before. He donned it immediately, marveling at how perfectly it fit, as if it had been tailored specifically for him.

  The Gentleman's Resolve enchantment was familiar territory, similar to what he had enjoyed from his Top Hat of Mental Clarity. Complete immunity to mind control and intimidation wasn't something to take for granted and was especially important for someone who needed to maintain battlefield control.

  The Cleansing Stroll enchantment wasn't exactly a priority with his Ring of Hygiene—but the poison-healing aspect could prove invaluable in the dangers that lay ahead without having to switch to Lathalon's Grace. He wasn't sure exactly how far he'd have to walk to heal from toxins, but it was never bad to have options.

  What truly caught his attention was the Cock of the Walk enchantment. Dandy's Swagger had always been useful, but at his current level, it provided only a minor boost. This enhancement would ensure it grew with him, giving him a powerful means of crowd control against lesser foes.

  But that wasn't all. At that moment, four shining orbs emerged from the portal, each bound for a party member. Justin reached out and grasped his, a gleaming sphere that pulsed with greenish energy.

  Rogue Core

  Core Attribute Restriction: Coordination

  Description: The rogue is the clever opportunist—deadly when ignored, elusive when chased, and charming when confronted. Absorb this core to gain the Rogue Class, or upgrade your current class upon reaching Level 20.

  "Nice," Justin said, examining the orb. Hopefully, this one would take, unlike the others he had attempted to absorb. Interestingly, this description mentioned Level 20 as a requirement. Perhaps the other two cores he already possessed would work after all, assuming he reached that threshold first.

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  He glanced around at his companions. Eldrin held a blue orb labeled as a Wizard Core, Lila examined a purple Mystic Core, while Emberlyn cradled an orange Pilgrim Core between her fiery hands. Justin hadn't encountered either Mystics or Pilgrims, but judging by their colors, Mystic was a Perception-based class while Pilgrim was Endurance-based.

  The Keeper's voice resonated in Justin's mind, warm and clear.

  [A final gift for you, Founder.]

  From the portal came a final object, a golden ring that floated gently down to land in Justin's palm. It had a single enchantment, but Justin's eyes widened as he examined it:

  The Founder's Ring

  Tier: Gold

  Founder's Retainer: This ring will allow its owner to summon Atlas, the trusty spider construct, a gold-level companion, and store him safely within the Ether when not in use.

  Justin stared at the ring in disbelief, then smiled as he immediately core-bound it. He wasn't entirely sure how it worked, so he simply pointed the ring toward the ground and willed Atlas to emerge.

  A flash of blue-white light erupted from the ring, forming a familiar silhouette before coalescing into solid metal and crystal. It reminded Justin greatly of the Pokémon shows he had watched as a child.

  Standing before him was Atlas—slightly smaller than the Guardian construct had been, but with the same distinctive blue tint to its carapace and battle scars across its front plate that made it unmistakable. It gave a resonant, metallic chirp.

  "Atlas," Justin whispered, his voice catching.

  The construct's crystal eyes pulsed in recognition, and it stepped forward almost gently. It extended one metal claw and gently tapped Justin's shoulder.

  "I can't believe it," Emberlyn said, her flames flickering with surprise. "The Keeper preserved its...consciousness?"

  "Seems so," Justin said. "Is this the same Atlas that defended me during the battle?"

  The Keeper's voice answered:

  [The construct designated 'Atlas' demonstrated unusual adaptive patterns during combat. Its memory core and behavioral algorithms have been preserved. It is now bound exclusively to the Founder.]

  Atlas's crystal core pulsed rhythmically, almost like a heartbeat. Justin reached out and placed his hand on the construct's cool metal carapace, feeling a connection that transcended the typical relationship between human and machine.

  "Welcome back, big guy," he said with a genuine smile. "I've got a feeling we're going to need you where we're headed."

  Atlas's response was a harmonious mechanical hum that seemed to resonate with something deeper than mere programming. The construct that had given everything to protect him had returned—not just as a temporary tool, but as a companion.

  Lila stepped up and held out a hand. Atlas lowered its metal head and almost cooed.

  "I think he likes you," Justin said.

  Her smile widened. "I like him too. Welcome to the party, Atlas."

  "An amazing reward," Eldrin said. "I would be nothing without Shadowflight, and it mourns me that he can't follow us in a place like this." The Ranger's eyes softened, a rare glimpse of the man beneath the stoic exterior. "A loyal companion who stands beside you is worth more than all the gold in the world.”

  Justin nodded. "I would have been dead without him."

  He somehow knew, of all the gear, gifts, boons, and everything else he had earned, that Atlas was probably the most valuable. He'd have to take good care of him.

  What was involved in upkeeping a construct like this, anyway? Questions for later, he supposed.

  As the portal closed and the Keeper Crystal dimmed, the Voice returned.

  [The fate of the expedition has been discovered, the gate key has been recovered, and the World Gate of Solanis once again stands open.]

  [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 of the Lost Expedition is complete!]

  [Experience Gained: 25,000]

  [Your experience stands at 33,400/13,000. Level-up available!]

  [25 Golden Crowns have been added to your inventory!]

  [Your inventory stands at 1 Platinum Shard, 25 Golden Crowns, 42 Silver Marks, and 78 Copper Pieces! (1P/25G/42S/78C)]

  As the Voice faded, Justin checked out his character screen. Enough in the tank to get to Level 18, and probably even Level 19.

  Which, of course, meant one last jump to Level 20 and his advanced class.

  But for now, Justin didn't have a mind for that. Atlas stood before him, his red eye-pieces expectant. It was definitely smaller than the Guardian-class construct of the battle, but given its gold-tier rating, Justin knew it would be a stalwart companion. As it stood, the construct came up to about his neck and looked extremely sturdy.

  "Game-changer," Justin said.

  "Congratulations," Emberlyn said. "Though the victory is bittersweet. Despite his betrayal, I mourn the loss of Ignis. His knowledge was valuable to the tribe. I would have never guessed he would choose himself over us."

  Eldrin's expression grew solemn. "You never truly know the measure of someone until they are offered what tempts them most. A person might resist gold, fame, or power, only to crumble when offered knowledge. We all have our price—wisdom lies in knowing what yours is before someone else discovers it."

  "True enough," Lila said. "I wonder if there is something I could be tempted by. Loads of money, probably.”

  "Where did you meet Ignis, anyway?" Justin asked.

  "Shortly before we came to Eyrth," Emberlyn said. "From another tribe on Solanis. He was part of the original expedition. He wouldn't have missed it for anything."

  "I see," Justin said. He wanted to ask more, but things were already moving along.

  Eldrin reached around his neck, where he had placed the ruby gate key. He handed it to Emberlyn. "I believe this belongs to you."

  Emberlyn's flames brightened as she accepted the key, closing her fiery fingers around it with reverence. "Thank you. My people owe you a debt we can never truly repay. I believed this Vault impossible to clear, yet you succeeded where our finest warriors failed."

  She paused, her flames dimming slightly. "I must beg your forgiveness for my role in trying to force this situation. I would have done anything to save my tribe." Her eyes met each of theirs in turn. "But I hope the rewards have made it worth your while. Know that you are welcome on Solanis anytime—you will always be honored among the Ashralok Fyrspawn."

  Justin just hoped she never found out about the massacre of her brethren in the cavern above. That could make things a bit...awkward. Perhaps those Fyrspawn had just been conjurations of the Vault. That was all he could hope for, anyway.

  "How long do you think it will take to relocate?" Justin asked.

  "The entire tribe will be through the gate before the world turns," Emberlyn said. "In keeping with our agreement."

  Justin was hardly thinking about the agreement now, but he realized that Emberlyn was bound to it all the same. And thinking of the agreement only brought to mind Valdrik. Was he up there even now?

  "There's the matter of the gateways," Eldrin said. "I'm not sure how familiar you are with this world, but we're trying to find our way back to Aranthia."

  "Of course," Emberlyn said. "There are three gateways that will take you to Aranthia. When we return to the village, I can have Pyra write you a detailed list. There are several gates you’ll want to avoid for sure, at least until you become stronger.”

  Justin wondered about this. That list would no doubt be useful, but he had forgotten something critical. The Sapphire Star actually showed his location anywhere on Eyrth, since it was in the shape of the planet. It wasn't perfect for determining location, but it was good for approximation. The list would still be useful, though.

  "That would be great," he said. "Although we've been down here for a while. I'm a little worried about who might be waiting up there for us."

  Lila hummed thoughtfully. "Maybe the right move is for us to use our own key to go through the Solanis Gate. Then we can just hang out there for a bit while Emberlyn brings us the information. And she can tell us if the city above is safe."

  "I like that idea," Justin said. "What do you think, Eldrin?"

  The Ranger smiled. "Well, I wouldn't be one to pass up the opportunity to explore a new world, even briefly. I gain experience from exploring new territories, so I can only imagine how much a new planet would give me."

  Atlas whirred and clicked, its metal limbs shifting with what seemed like excited energy. Its crystal eyes pulsed brightly.

  "I think Atlas agrees," Justin said, interpreting the construct's mechanical sounds. "Well, that settles it. If that sounds good to you, Emberlyn."

  "I think we have a plan. Go on through the gate. If you happen to run into my people, explain that I sent you and there shouldn't be any problems. That said, I'd hang around the Gate just in case and not explore too deeply. If it's not safe, maybe you can pass back through to Zanthera."

  It was good enough for Justin. He looked back at the Keeper Crystal.

  "Keeper?"

  [How may I serve, Founder?]

  "Can I return here anytime if I have more questions?"

  [Yes. I can answer any of your queries in line with your Founder Level.]

  "Is there a way to increase my Founder Level?"

  [You didn't pass the initial test, but there is a way around this. You would need a code from another Keeper showing you passed their examination. Given this, I would be able to upgrade your Founder Level.]

  "Another Keeper? There's more than one of you? How many Keepers are there?"

  [This is unknown. The Founders created dozens of colonies throughout the Aetherion. Whether any survive or are even accessible is for you to determine.]

  "I see."

  Perhaps when things had calmed down, he'd pack a lot of supplies and come down here. It would be smart to take note of any questions he had for later, so he could come fully armed.

  But for now, they had an obligation to fulfill.

  Justin shared this new information that he had learned with the others.

  "That's interesting," Lila said. "Maybe you can figure out if there's a way back to your own world."

  "Maybe," Justin said. He felt a bit guilty because he still hadn't told her that he had already been afforded that opportunity once with the Sapphire Star. There was so little time for explanations, but all that would come in time.

  "Let's escort Emberlyn back to the elevator," Eldrin said. "Then after that..."

  "A whole new world?" Justin asked.

  "That about sums it up," Lila said.

  They headed back for the main elevator. Atlas walked at his side, metal legs clicking rhythmically against the stone floor. Justin might have to keep him stored in dangerous areas because the sound was quite noticeable. He hoped Atlas wouldn’t mind.

  But for now, Solanis beckoned.

  As they walked, Justin took a look at his updated character screen:

  Justin Talemaker

  Class: Socialite

  Level: 17

  Focus: Gentleman

  Experience to Level 18: 33,400/13,000.

  Attributes:

  Power: 24 (B10 + 8 + 4 + 2) [Star, Regalia, Cane]

  Coordination: 22 (B10 + 8 + 4) [Star, Regalia]

  Endurance: 22 (B10 + 8 + 4) [Star, Regalia]

  Intellect: 24 (B10 + 8 + 4 + 1) [Star, Regalia, Essence]

  Perception: 18 (B10 + 8) [Star]

  Charisma: 64 (B48 + 8 + 6 + 1 + 1) [Regalia, Cane, Presence, Essence]

  Stat-Boosting Gear:

  The Sapphire Star: +16 to Base Charisma.

  The Cane of the Drake: +6 Charisma, +2 Power.

  The Founder's Gentleman's Regalia: +8 Charisma, +4 Power, +4 Coordination, +4 Endurance, +4 Intellect.

  The Amulet of Equilibrium: +8 to all non-dominant attributes.

  Stat-Boosting Buffs:

  Draconic Luster: +3 to Base Charisma.

  Heroic Ascension: +1 to Base Charisma. (One-time boost from coring the Cane of Valoria)

  Refined Presence: +1 to Charisma.

  The Essence of the Hoard: +1 to Charisma and Intellect.

  choosing Socialite as his class (a change that makes sense given the rewritten opening). It has fixed a lot of the weaknesses, especially in the earlier chapters, along with plot holes that were pointed out.

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