The news hung heavy in the air, a silent weight on their shoulders. Each member of the family retreated to their own corner, their minds racing with thoughts of the future. Richard, ever the strategist, began formulating plans for their future, his mind buzzing with ideas. John, the pragmatist, started preparing for the changes to come, Thinking of the changes over the next few months. Stacey, the youngest, retreated to her room, her heart heavy with the realization that her world was about to change irrevocably.

As the day wore on, a strange sense of anticipation settled over the house. The impending adventure, the unknown dangers, and the potential rewards all mixed together, creating a cocktail of fear and excitement. They knew they had to be strong, to face whatever challenges lay ahead. They were a family, and they would face them together.

After dinner, Robert gathered the family in the living room. "We need to talk about the future," he began, his voice serious. "A plan to ensure our safety and prosperity, even in my absence." He paused, tapping his temple. "I've been discussing this with Hal, and I believe creating magical items is a viable strategy. They will hold their charge until used and a lot of them can be recharged."

"How would we recharge them?" John asked, a hint of skepticism in his voice. "I can leave you mana stones, essentially magical batteries," Robert explained. "These can be used to recharge many items."

"What kind of items should we focus on?" John inquired. "Defensive items and healing items are a priority," Robert replied. "I've learned about a Tier 4 healing item that can regrow limbs. It's a powerful spell, but it requires a combination of Light and Healing magic."

Richard's eyes widened. "People would pay a fortune for that!" he exclaimed. "Indeed," Robert agreed. "But such power also attracts danger. Defensive items are crucial for your protection."

Robert continued, "Beyond items, I think it's essential to train you all in self-defense. Once I reach the required teaching level, I'll learn some fighting skills and pass them on to you. At Tier 1 Level 3, you'd be a black belt, and at Level 4, you'd be qualified to teach. If time permits, I'll definitely make sure you all learn these skills."

Turning to Sara, Robert said, "I'm also considering teaching you advanced medical skills. I already know advanced First Aid, but I might explore higher-level medical skills as well. Even with healing items, understanding the healing process could be beneficial." "That sounds like a sensible plan," Sara replied.

"The only other major consideration is finances," Robert added. "I'll need to quit my job soon, as I won't have time for it. Hal tells me we'll likely earn silver and gold coins from the dungeons, which can be sold. We only need about eight coins a month, which should be manageable until we can sell some of the magical items, probably through government channels. Once we're working with the government, money likely won't be an issue. I'm sure Uncle Sam will be willing to pay handsomely for information and items."

Robert looked over at the clock, "Okay I know we've had a long eventful day but you guys need to get homework done and it is a school night. We'll talk more tomorrow when you three get home from school."

After the kids left, Robert turned to Sara, "So how do you think they took it?" "About as well as could be expected, "Sara answered, "I'm thinking tomorrow it will really hit them and the freakout will really begin, I know I've still not fully processed it."

Robert went over to Sara and held her, "I'm not sure I have either, come on I'll help you clean up the kitchen."

The next morning, the house was filled with a strange silence. The usual morning bustle was replaced by a somber mood. Richard and John were lost in thought, their breakfasts untouched. Stacey, usually so full of energy, seemed withdrawn, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and confusion.

"Are you sure about this, Dad?" Richard asked, his voice barely a whisper. Robert nodded, his expression serious. "I'm as sure as I can be. This is our future, and we have to embrace it, no matter how scary it may seem." John, ever the pragmatist, interjected, "So, what's the plan for today? Should we even bother going to school?"

"For now, I think it's best to stick to our normal routine. It will help keep us grounded," Robert replied. A short while later, the kids left for school, and Robert retreated to his office.

Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

"Hal, should I use my skill points now, or save them? What should I expect from the first floor of the Dungeon?"

One thing to understand is that the system is strict, uncompromising, and sometimes blunt, but ultimately fair. The first floor will be relatively easy, featuring creatures like rats, slimes, or other small animals. It won't take long either, probably just 3 or 4 rooms, a brief introduction to what lies ahead.

"I suppose I'm fine as I am. Learning a few more spells wouldn't hurt, but my basic knife skills and spells should be sufficient."

I agree. You could probably defeat anything on the first floor with a well-placed kick. In my opinion, the real value of the first floor lies in the shop access. It will give you a chance to assess your needs and plan accordingly.

"Will the shop's inventory change?"

Yes, but it will expand rather than contract. Some items may be unique, but most will remain available unless purchased. This will allow you to plan for future growth.

"That's good to know. So, if I find a Tier 2 Spell Book, I can save up for it without fear of it disappearing?"

That is correct.

"Alright, I'll hold onto my skill points then. Is there an easy way to earn more?"

You can level up to gain titles and feats, which can provide skill points. However, I'm not authorized to provide specific guidance on acquiring them.

"Back to the grind, then." With that, Robert opened his spellbook and delved into its pages.

Several hours later, Sara entered his office, interrupting his study. "Lunchtime," she announced. He looked up, startled. "I could eat, actually. Reading seems to be quite draining."

Following Sara to the dining room, Robert took his seat at the table as she placed a sandwich in front of him. "So, it's a new day, and nothing seems to have changed. It's all really happening, isn't it?" Sara asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Yes, my dear. It seems so," Robert replied, his tone somber. "I don't know what I will do without you."

Sara offered a reassuring smile. "You'll be fine. You're the strongest person I know. So, when's your first trip?"

"Tomorrow, I think. Hal says the first floor is easy, so easy I could probably just kick my way through." Sara frowned. "Don't underestimate it. Assume it's difficult, just to be safe." "You're right," Robert admitted. "I apologize. I was trying to reassure you."

"Just come back safe and I'll be fine," Sara replied.

After lunch, Robert returned to his office and continued to pore over the spellbook. He had to pause several times to take work calls and attend meetings. He also submitted a request for the following day off.

Later that afternoon, when the kids returned home, he wrapped up his work for the day and joined his family. "I'll have a better idea of how things will go after tomorrow. Once I get a sense of the rewards and how much I can earn, I'll look into putting in a notice. I feel bad, but I don't think I can give a two-week notice. I'm guessing I'll need to focus on training and won't have time for the office."

John offered a forced laugh, "Well, the good news is, you won't need them as a reference." Robert smiled. "That's true, though I still feel bad. The good news is that my team is well-trained and can manage without me long enough for them to find a replacement. Still, I feel guilty."

"I know you do, Robert, but you have to focus on yourself right now. You said the start of the dungeon wasn't hard, but how long will that last?" Sara asked." I'm guessing only the first few floors, maybe a week or so. After that, I'll probably have to put in some serious work to increase my skills," Robert replied.

"Well, there you have it," Sara responded. "Your company will suffer from a few extra meetings for your boss. You, on the other hand, can't afford mistakes. Tell them you're sorry, but you have no choice." "I know you're right," Robert stated. "It's tough, but I'll do it. After that, I'll focus on training and learning spells. I hope to find or buy a Tier 2 spellbook soon to increase my power. I'm also hoping the System will offer skill books on enchanting to help me get started. The book I received covered the basics, but it didn't come with many blueprints."

"What time tomorrow will you be leaving?" Richard asked. "Probably right after you leave for school. I should be back before you all are," Robert replied. "I'm sorry, Dad, but we won't be going to school tomorrow. We can't focus on class while you're on your first run," Stacey said seriously. "I understand your concern," Robert replied to Stacey. "You can stay home from school tomorrow, but that's it. Now, get to work on your homework, and I'll see you all at dinner."

After dinner, the family spent some quality time together before retiring for the night. Tomorrow was going to be a big day.