All six of them walked back onto Earth. The portal itself dimmed and when anyone focused on it, a notification showed up with a timer, just like when portals were before Phase 1 started.

“Well, let's head home everyone. We have to rest up before we head into the city.” Leo said, smiling a little.

“About that…” Mathew said, ready for the reaction Leo was going to have. “We need to wait a bit longer. I want to bring a proper force, not just two or three of us.”

Leo point at Mathew, “You said-”

“I know, and I’m changing what I said. We have no clue what the situation is there. You want to show up and get killed instantly? Why don’t we play it safe for once, hmm? We were right, we can’t half ass this shit. That Dungeon there proved it. The one in the city is Beginner ranked, same as the Infernals. Look how close to losing we were. That’s without an army of undead, plus any extra buffs it received like this one had.”

“I hate to say it, but Mathew is right.” Henderson admitted. “We are still going Leo, just wait. I can get a proper unit of twenty ready to roll in less than two weeks. Not including volunteers outside the new guardsmen.”

Leo huffed, he was too exhausted to try anything. “Fine. Two weeks and I’m going with or without everyone.” He walked to the trucks and hopped into the back, slamming the door closed.

Samuel walked up next to Mathew, “I’m not going this time. If Henderson is going, someone else with rank needs to stay behind.”

Mathew nodded, “That’s fine. I wasn’t going to count on you this time. I have zero intentions of doing this by myself. Any and all able fighters in that city are going to help us. If not, then I’ll just take the Hearth Crystal and black mail them.”

“Really, black mail?” Lindsey asked. “Are you going to stoop that low?”

“To win? Oh absolutely.” Mathew responded. “I’ve done more for less. This time, I have an army to support me.”

Henderson crossed her arms. “No stupid ideas Mathew.”

“It will be fine. The scouts should bring back some good news. Black mail is my plan C.”

“What’s A and B?” Zack asked, curiously. “Is it begging?”

“Nope. I’m going to make them ask me to help. What do you think a guy with a squad of professional American military members is there to do? Think of cliche movies or propaganda commercials.”

“To save the day.” Zack answered, nodding. “I like it. Using old world standards to recruit help, and be given a hero’s welcome. Let’s just hope they still love the old America. Be real awkward if some hidden terrorist orginization took up shop.”

“I doubt it. Besides, there are two groups who don’t like each other. It will be a bidding war on who we end up helping.” Mathew said with a smile. “Again, this depends upon their current situation. If they are starving and barely holding it together, we will have an easy time. If they are thriving better than we are? Well, we are doomed.”

“How do you know the Dungeon isn’t claimed?” Damien asked.

“Undead still wander the streets, is what I was told.” Mathew gestured around himself. “I don’t see any dinosaurs, do you?”

Everyone seemed satisfied with that plan. They made it back well after dark. Mathew didn’t bother eating or showering, he was too exhausted. His bed welcomed him with open arms.

The next morning, Mathew’s primary focus was twofold. Firstly, get his two highest skills to Apprentice 0 if possible. He was close, he could feel it. With his newest ability, it might be the extra edge to push [Mana Bolt] to the next tier. As for [Knives], he had no clue. He wanted to keep training his throwing skill with them.

Already, his aim was great. At least on par with the best of the knife throwers in the old world. Outside martial artists who specialize with varied versions of the skill. He really wanted to get a few more powers up a rank, but he doubted that would be possible. One required Mana Cores, so that was out.

Another required constant bartering, or possible fighting against people who used mental attacks. [Staves] was too low to get up in two weeks. Same with [Writing], [Jeffrey], [Conjure Weapon], and [Share Sense].

Then there was also Agnox, who was Level 10. Currently, he was still resting, unsummoned. Yet, he made Mathew promise to take him to the Hearth Crystal today to gain his class. The Familiar mentioned Mathew had to be there, as he was the Summoner. Mathew was interested in what the Imp would get as a class.

Outside of training, there was finally establishing the laws. Talking to Di about restricting access. Planning upgrade plans and growth for the town while he was gone. Lastly, finding volunteers to join their ‘hero mission’.

“Blue Oaks want’s ‘YOU’ to join the defense against the aliens!” Mathew thought to himself. Propaganda was going to need to be spun to inspire new people to join. Convincing people to join him was going to be difficult. Having information, resources, and so much more are all great selling points. He needed those things though. Information, he had a strong stock in. He doubted too many other safe zones had shops like Di.

With the Dungeon, a small source of Resources was now his. The Volkurs had hides. Zack said that leather workers are going to boom in popularity. Neon colored armor was in, metal armor was out.

Mathew glanced at his menu, staring at the level. “Only at 23…one away from finding out what is stopping people. I wonder if my brothers figured out how to get past it. I do need to take Agnox there.” A small smile showed up on his face.

The idea that he was still stronger than four of his other brothers motivated him to stay there. It was a silent ‘fuck you’. Years of being the black sheep and treated as the weakest link. Just because he didn’t conform to their standards.

Mathew shower, changed into a fresh set of robes, and walked outside to the golf cart. A short ride took him to the Hearth Crystal, where he quickly summoned Agnox.

He wasted no time after being summoned and slammed his hand flat on the surface of the large red crystal. Mathew didn’t have a moment to say anything before he was taken to a familiar grey zone.

“Awww yea. Class time! I wonder if I get anything new this time.”

“Did you with Morthrus?”

“Yea. I wouldn’t mind my old class. However, it’s your decision in the end sadly.”

Mathew raised an eyebrow, “It is?”

“Yea, Summoners get to choose. I would like to pick myself, but you have 51%. Remember the agreement we had?”

“I thought that was a formality…” Mathew thought over everything they discussed.

“Yes and no. Our binding is built upon a contractual agreement. Any deals we both shake on, literally or physically, are binding. Little things like ‘Yes I promise to not eat cookies before dinner’ are not binding. It’s very subjective. The whims of The Council are hard to understand. Just so long as we don’t fuck each other over, we are cool as a pickle.”

“Cucumber.” Mathew corrected. He was looking around, waiting for copies of Agnox to walk up.

A few moments went by before Agnox spoke up again. “Okay, the list is here. Take a look.”

“Where are the copies of yourself? They give answers and stuff.”

“Huh? What are you talking about? You just end up here so you have more time to think and it’s quiet. There are no copies or anything weird.”

Mathew didn’t say anything more, dropping the topic. He thought everyone experienced that…

Mages Familiar (Common)

As a familiar, it is your duty to aid-

“Just skip that one. If you pick it for me, I’ll stab you in your sleep.” Agnox glared at Mathew as he then moved on. He didn’t want it either, based on the name alone. Plus a Common rank? What kind of weak path did that force him to follow?

Pyromancer (Uncommon)

An elemental focused mage who chooses to wield their chosen magic with absolute might. Their magic manifests from the hottest reaches of the universe. It is used to destroy, or bring warmth. While focused on the element of fire, a Pyromancer is an open ended class choice. Allowing those who wield such magics to apply their style of combat how they see fit.

Upgradeable

+3 Wisdom +2 Intelligence + 1 Dexterity, +2 Vitality, 2 free stat points per level and +2 Endurance due to binding with Mathew McGonald.

Ability Gained: Fire Manipulation

Skill Gained: Fire Resistance

Spell Upgrade: Firebolt -> Flame Enchantment

Infernal Ky’s Hand (Unique)

As a Familiar of a Hearth Crystal owner from a different planet, you have the option to guide them in your clan's image. Hearth Crystal upgrades added, Live up to the honor of the Ky’ Clan. Refusal of this class will give negative fate in relation to the Ky’ Clan.

+5 Wisdom, +10 Intelligence, +3 Dexterity, +3 Endurance, and +2 Endurance due to binding with Mathew McGonald.

Ability: Familiar Communication

Spell: Fireball -> NecroFireball

Spell: Conjure Imp

Flaming Swordsman (Rare)

Your duty to protect and serve your Summoner is important to you. You depend upon him, as he depends upon you. Typically a class chosen by those who have skills in both fire and melee skills. Relying upon their talents to defeat the enemies of their master, a Flaming Swordsman is devoted to their path. A flame that never dies, a blade that never breaks, a bond that will last till the last star fades.

+4 Dexterity, +3 Wisdom, +2 Vitality, +2 Strength, +1 free stat point per level, and +2 Endurance due to binding with Mathew McGonald.

+1 Skill and Ability Slot, -1 Spell slot

Ability Gained: Ignite Blade

Skill Gained: Light Armor

Skill Upgrade: Small Blades -> Swords

Spell Exchange: Fireball -> Flare

Agnox pointed at the first choice. “Pick that one.”

Mathew didn’t move. “And why not the other two?”

“Ugh, really want me to explain it?” Mathew nodded and waited for him to go on. “Fine. The Infernal one is self explanatory. I cut ties with those people when I joined you. Picking that solidifies that. You will have no more doubts about my honesty hopefully. Not that you haven't as far as I know, but still. Also, I am not a Swordsman. As entertaining as a Rare class is, it’s a pass for me.”

Mathew would sit down, but didn’t know if that was safe to do here. Agnox was just floating in the air. “I want to at least talk it out.”

“I knew it. You are a greedy Summoner. Fuck you.”

“Hey, stop it.” Mathew snapped. “I want to talk it out. If I wanted you to be the swordsman, then I would have selected it already. At least hear out my reasoning.”

Agnox rolled his eyes, “Fine, talk. But you won’t change my mind!”

“List out my current summons.”

“Two wisps, an infernal puppy, and your favorite one, me.”

Mathew nodded, “And how many can fight in a melee.”

“Just Jeffrey.” Agnox said slowly.

“Which means I am lacking a melee source of damage. Honestly ranged damage is fine as it is. Between myself and the two wisps. Additionally, this will help you stay alive. Stats that will increase your defensiveness? I don’t want you to die, you are worth too much to me. Both as a source of information, and my familiar. You are the strongest out of the four. Remember what I promised you? A chance to work with me. Side by side. Taking over the world.”

“Pft, you want to take over the world? Fat chance.”

“It wasn’t literal, but what if I do?”

Agnox was about to poke fun at Mathew, but paused. “No cowshit answer?”

“Bullshit, and yes.”

“I don’t know much about it. I do know the strongest of a faction or clan that controls a planet. Are strong. Easily Student rank. Maybe even Journeyman. It might be different for a newly integrated one like yours though. On the chance it’s possible, is how well you can take over the world with nobody objecting to your rule.”

“So I have to be voted in?”

Agnox shrugged, “Different clans, different ways things are done. Mine was through sheer power. A tyranny. The strongest ruled with a black flaming fist.”

“And I want to be in charge. I want to stay in charge. I have a quest, two actually.”

Agnox squinted his eyes. “Can I see?”

Mathew was about to say no, but paused. This was a good chance to build better trust with Agnox, possibly might help convince him more.

“Sure.”

Quest: The Seed of Fate, Step 1

Gaia, God of Earthly Bonds, has issued you a quest. Failure to follow their guidance can and will lead you to failure. Become the seedling that blossoms into the flower whose thorns can cut the red strings of tomorrow.

Become owner of a Hearth Crystal: 1/1

Finish and clear an Earth themed Dungeon: 0/1

(Bonus rewards for doing so solo)

Learn Two Truths: 1/2

Surpass The Mortal Steps: 0/1

Reward: Spell [Summon Bush]

Timed Quest: Path to Sovereignty, Part I

Reach the upper reaches of nobility in the universe and claim the titles for yourself. Leaders are not born, but are created. As an owner of a Hearth Crystal, you too have a chance to become one of the greats.

Acquire 5 Hearth Crystals 2/5

Acquire 7 Dungeon Cores 3/7

Reach Level 25

Rewards:

Title Choice: Baron, Chief, Magister, or Manager

Upgrade to Safe Zone

Time Left: 315 Days

“You have a Quest from a God? Mathew, how many other surprises do you have?”

Mathew gave a wink. “Not telling.”

“Ugh, okay. So the second one really makes me think you could rule over the rest of humans here, and other people.”

“Which is why I need someone who can fight in a melee with, or for me. With Jeffrey beside you, what can stop you two?”

“Yea, me and the furball get along great. I can't deny that.”

“Exactly. With me and the wisp duo covering you at range, we will be able to battle any Dungeon boss of Novice level. That one was difficult due to numbers.”

“Ahh, but there lies the conundrum. [Fireball] is my spell that deals damage in a large area. That class takes it away, but Pyromancer enhances it greatly. No swarm of beasts will touch you.”

Mathew took a deep breath, “I get it. Even if I get new summons, what’s the chance I get one as strong as you? Hell, I could get a spell for AOE damage, or an upgrade.”

“I am pretty great arn’t I? My first master only had one other summon, a large bug like creature. It was his tank why he fought in the melee with me as range support.”

“The dynamic is different this time. I can fight in a melee, but poorly. With this class, you will be great at it. Look at the new powers you get.”

Agnox looked at the blue box for a long while. “I’ll do it on two conditions.”

“Name them.”

“Firstly, you buy me a decent set of armor. Of your pocket. Secondly, you tell me your Axiom.”

Mathew paused, but relented. “It’s a [Glint of Resistance]. It gave me a skill called [Contest]. Also, why not get a set made with those new hides we got?”

Agnox whistled. “Resistance eh? Isn’t that a bit tanky?”

“I don’t know, it’s weird. I’ve used it a few times, but it was always to reinforce things, or empower them. No way it’s been like resistaning things.”

“Maybe you have, but never realized it…I never had an Axiom. But I've felt the offensive ones.” He shuddered remembering Morthrus. “Promise me you won’t slack on it. Axioms are powerful Mathew. And when I get my own, you be a good Summoner and help me follow the path you picked for me.”

“Deal.”

Mathew selected Flaming Swordsman, and a fire engulfed Agnox. The dark figure in the flames slowly changed. It was hard to tell, as Mathew was in a small panic seeing Agnox be swallowed by fire.

A minute went by and the fire winked out. Standing there was a familiar looking Agnox. Standing two feet tall, slim and muscular, with a face normal looking. The ugly pig was gone, the Infernal Imp was back.

However, there was a new addition. The grey mark on his side had moved to his right arm. It was a seven chain link wrapping around his forearm.

“One word about a slave mark, and I’ll light you on fire.” Agnox threatened as he looked at the mark.

Mathew just shook his head and smiled. “Sure thing. Let’s get out of here. We have work to do.”