Robert spent the rest of the day reconnecting with family, filling them in on the day's unusual events, and reassuring them that he was merely waiting for his next appointment. This waiting period was brief. The following day, the tranquility of his hotel room was shattered by a knock. Standing before him were two FBI agents and two military personnel. "Mr. Williams, we've been assigned to escort you to the White House for a scheduled meeting with several officials." Robert quickly scanned the room, ensuring he hadn't left anything behind, before following them out. The drive to the White House was eerily quiet. Robert was surprised to see the normally bustling streets devoid of traffic. Then it dawned on him – they had closed off the roads. "While it's flattering to be treated like a VIP, couldn't we have avoided inconveniencing people who simply need to get around town?" he asked. One of the agents replied, "I apologize, sir. We rank-and-file agents aren't privy to the specifics. All we know is that you're a high-priority individual and you're getting the full treatment." Robert smiled and replied, "Worry not, I can promise you I'm far from special. I just know something certain other people want to know, and they're trying to play nice."

Shortly after reaching the main gate of the White House, they paused for an ID check before being swiftly ushered through. Robert anticipated further security screenings, but it dawned on him that his inventory made thorough inspection impossible. He was then handed off to White House staff and escorted to a secure briefing room. Instructed to wait, Robert found himself growing impatient after an hour. The door swung open, and a large group entered, the President bringing up the rear. Taking his seat, the President began, "Robert, thank you for joining us. This room holds some of the most powerful people in the government, as well as leading scientists. We have the Vice President, Chief of Staff, Secretaries of State and Defense, Directors of National Intelligence, NASA, and DARPA, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. Gentlemen, this is Robert Williams." Robert replied, "Good afternoon. Thank you for meeting with me."

Frank interjected, "Robert, good to see you again. We still need to have dinner." Robert smiled, "I might be free tonight." The President quickly interceded, "You can catch up later. Robert, we've reviewed your materials, but the details are sparse." Robert nodded, pulling out the massive System Guide Book. "The issue is the sheer volume of information. This is a basic guide, covering the System's history and fundamental operations." He gestured to the book. "And I emphasize basic." Director Manshon, head of National Intelligence, inquired, "Can we access that book?" Robert smiled, producing a flash drive. "The physical book, no. But my wife scanned it, so you can have a digital copy." Dr. Ashworth, the Science Advisor, asked, "How does it work? It's like a video game inventory system, but... how?"

Robert paused and wondered how to answer and then realized with his high-tier knowledge of the Sphere of Space and Time, he did in fact understand how the Inventory system worked and provided the answer, "The inventory system is intrinsically linked to each user's System Core, this core serves as the interface between the user and the System. This System Core is, in turn, connected to a subcore dedicated to managing the inventory space. This subcore, a specialized computational entity, resides within the subspace layer and controls the dematerialization and rematerialization processes. When an item is placed into the inventory, the subcore analyzes its quantum state and creates a digital blueprint. This blueprint is then stored within the subspace layer, while the physical item is dematerialized and its energy signature is transferred to the blueprint. To retrieve an item, the subcore reverses the process, rematerializing the item from the blueprint and restoring its energy signature. The System Core provides the necessary energy and computational power to facilitate this intricate process, ensuring seamless interaction with the inventory space."

Dr. Ashworth listened intently, then asked, "So this System Core is essentially a personal computer for each user?" Robert nodded. "Correct. It's not explicitly detailed in the book, but I've learned a bit about the underlying infrastructure. At the apex is the System's Central Processing Core Cluster, a colossal network of cores spanning universes. Below that are Universal Control Nodes, massive subcores managing each universe. Each galaxy has a Galaxy Control Core, overseeing galactic-scale System functions. Sector Control Nodes manage specific regions within galaxies. And finally, at the bottom, are the Personal Access Nodes, our individual System Cores."

Dr. Ashworth's eyes lit up. "So the System is a massive AI network. How do you prevent hacks?" Robert smiled. "Even as a Tier 6 computer expert, probably the highest rank in this universe, I can't fathom accessing my own core. These cores exist outside our reality. The only way to interact with them is through the System itself, which has stringent security measures. Additionally, they're protected by Divine-tier constructs. It would take a coordinated effort by multiple gods, and even then, it's just a matter of time before the System counterattacks, and at that point, the gods would lose."

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

Vice President Brakenson interjected, "You speak of gods as if they're real. What are these so-called gods?" Robert paused, collecting his thoughts. "They're Tier 10 Divine beings. Or, to put it simply, they're incredibly powerful, immortal beings who have mastered a specific skill to such a degree that they've become it. Imagine someone reaching the pinnacle of a skill like the Magic Sphere of Fire. If they continue to delve deeper, they could potentially become one with fire itself, ascending to godhood. It's a risky endeavor, with failure resulting in death. But success grants divine status." He continued, "Our universe will eventually produce its own gods, but there can only be one god per skill, limiting their number."

The Vice President then asked, "What about the God that many believe in?" Robert looked at her, "I asked the System the same question, and the response was... it doesn't know. The System, while incredibly knowledgeable, doesn't possess omniscience. It can't explain the origins of the multiverse. Its answer was that God's existence is possible, but until a revelation occurs, the question remains unanswered."

General Tailly, The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, asked the next question, "What is magic and what can you do with it?" Robert had an answer for that, "magic isn't a mystical force, but a complex interplay of energy, information, and consciousness. At its core, magic is the manipulation of the fundamental building blocks of reality, often referred to as "mana." This mana, a pervasive energy field, permeates all things, from the smallest particle to the grandest celestial body. To access and wield this power, individuals must first unlock specific skills related to the spheres of magic. These spheres, such as the Sphere of Elemental Fire, the Sphere of Time, or the Sphere of Illusion, represent fundamental aspects of reality. By mastering spells within a sphere, a practitioner gains the ability to channel and manipulate mana in accordance with that sphere's principles. For instance, a mage who has learned the "Fireball" spell within the Sphere of Elemental Fire can harness the energy of fire to create and project a fiery projectile. Similarly, a master of the Sphere of Time could gain access to a spell to slow down time or even reverse it within a limited area."

Dr. Ashworth mused, "Mana seems to be the key, isn't it? Without it, magic remains inaccessible." Robert nodded, "Exactly. Magic items function because they contain stored mana." NASA Administrator William Felson inquired, "You've shared knowledge with your family. Would you be willing to extend that to others?" Robert confirmed, "Yes, but there's a cost." Director Manshon guessed, "A financial one?" Robert smiled, "While I do want to provide for my family, the cost isn't monetary. Let me explain how the System works. Currently, I'm limited to Tier 1, Level 3 knowledge. This is due to the System Core's role in guiding knowledge transfer. At higher levels, without proper guidance, there's a risk of brain damage.

Tier 1, Level 3 knowledge, using Anti-Matter as an example, provides a foundational understanding of its creation, storage, and use. It's akin to the initial discovery of fire. At Level 1, you could create and store Anti-Matter, but it would be inefficient and risky. Level 2 refines the process, making it safer and more energy-efficient. Level 3 represents a significant advancement, allowing for efficient production and practical applications, such as Anti-Matter power generation. My son, aspiring to a career in space, will receive the knowledge to build advanced spacecraft capable of reaching Mars in days, not months. However, I won't share weapon-related knowledge. I'm committed to America's leadership, but not at the expense of global dominance.

I can impart one skill every two weeks to each person, limiting the depth of knowledge transfer. I can provide the foundation for expertise in a specific field, but further advancement will require dedicated study and research. For instance, I can provide the mathematical framework for advanced Anti-Matter production, but you'll need to apply it independently. Regarding defensive technology, I'll consider two additional skills: Advanced Primary Subsystem Design for Spacecraft and Advanced Sensor and Scanning Systems. These skills will enable the development of artificial gravity and advanced sensor capabilities, respectively."

The meeting continued for another two hours. Ultimately, they agreed that Robert would impart power and ship design skills to 20 individuals. He would also provide written guidance on advancing to Level 4, though the specific implementation would be left to the scientists. In exchange, he would receive a tax-free payment of $250 million, ensuring his family's future. Additionally, they agreed to provide John with a $300 million grant to establish a company upon completing college, positioning him as a future leader in the space industry. Shortly after, the meeting concluded, and Robert was escorted back to his hotel. Later that evening, he finally had dinner with Frank and his wife.