The update didn't end there, as Rayven was given a few more surprises.

[ System Update: Extended Coinbound Vault Access Activated ]

[ The Coinbound Vault has been unlocked.

This secure, dimensional repository allows storage of physical items provided by the system or not.

Items may be rematerialized at any time using the same Coinbound System interface. ]

Special Integration: Reaching a higher tier will give you the ability to expand the storage space and remotely withdraw stored items from up to 100 meters away. ]

Rayven's eyes were filled with excitement.

"Archive and Vault, huh… Now that's convenient."

He wasn't sure about the exact size of the storage, but it would definitely be useful from now on. Finally, he could keep his precious items or luggage safely during his travel.

Furthermore, he wouldn't have to worry about anyone stealing his blueprints as he could secure them now without relying on storage chests.

Nonetheless, the system ended the notification with something he could look forward to…

[ Upcoming System Unlock Preview ]

[ Upon Advancement to Tier 2 (Adept Mage), additional System Functions will be made available. ]

[ Skill Market Expansion:

- Total Spell Listings: 8 (from 7 - 8)

- Guaranteed 2 Rare-Grade Spells among the listings.

- Physical Enhancement Option: Unlock the ability to purchase Body Augmentations or Stamina-related Skills directly from the Skill Market. ]

[ Further Integration Notice: Two more System Features will be automatically activated upon advancement to Tier 2. Details locked until requirements are met. ]

Rayven chuckled after seeing this.

"Eight spells… guaranteed rares… and physical enhancements?" His voice trembled with excitement.

"You've got to be kidding me. You're really spoiling me now!"

He could practically feel his heart pounding. The Coinbound System was evolving faster than he imagined.

"Two more features waiting after Tier 2, huh? Damn… now I have to see what they are."

He closed the interface and stretched his arms…

"Well then, no point wasting time."

Just like that, Rayven wanted to complete the mission immediately. He needed a verified duel. Probably, it must be acknowledged by some people… maybe the Guild or the Association.

So, after leaving the Aurora Auction Hall, he made his way to the Adventurer's Guild… The staff from the Auction House seemed curious as he didn't come out carrying gold coins, but Rayven didn't care.

***

'I'm back… It's been a while…' Rayven mused.

The Guild was as lively as ever. There were adventurers coming in and out, receptionists managing requests, and mission boards filled with pinned parchments.

Behind the long counter, Rayven then noticed a familiar face.

"Rayven! It's been a month… I thought you'd become a full-time businessman and would never visit here again." Stella greeted.

There weren't a lot of Mage Adventurers in the guild, so it was quite easy to remember him.

"I'm still a registered adventurer.. I will visit from time to time. Ahem… I need to file a special request today." He replied.

"Oh? That's rare coming from you. What kind of request are we talking about? A business escort? A monster hunt?"

Rayven shook his head.

"A duel request. I need to fight a verified Adept Mage. Maybe one that's registered under the Guild or Mage Association..."

For a second, Stella blinked in surprise.

"Wait… a duel? Against an Adept Mage? You're serious?"

"Dead serious…" Rayven replied calmly. Although he's not a Tier 2 Mage yet, he has already won against one.

"Yes… Just note it that it's for advancement training. I need an official record of victory."

He explained… He wasn't really sure how the 'verified' works, so he might as well request to authenticate whatever needed to be done.

Stella could only nod as she started writing. Well, this wasn't a normal request after all.

"Normally, it's something the Academy or Association handles…"

She stopped mid-sentence when she saw him pull out a small pouch and drop it on the counter.

Clink. Clink.

"Twenty gold coins…" Rayven said simply. "This is enough to make a busy mage pay attention, right?"

Her expression froze for a moment before she nodded.

"Rayven… you really know how to motivate people."

"It's an investment… I just need this duel to happen as soon as possible."

Stella shook her head in disbelief but couldn't hide her amusement. She started filling out the Guild form using the Fountain Pen that Rayven was very familiar with.

"Alright, I'll make it happen. With that kind of bounty, someone's bound to take the challenge within a day or two."

She then looked at him curiously. "Are you sure about this, though? Adept Mages aren't pushovers. They're at least twice as strong as Tier 1s. I heard they can Dual Cast and they cast faster."

Rayven chuckled. "That's exactly why I want to fight one."

His tone wasn't arrogant, but it was eager. There was a thirst for growth behind it.

"Well… I'll post this under the 'Formal Duel' category. Aside from posting it, I'll have it reviewed by the Magic Division first. Expect an answer within the next 24 hours."

Rayven nodded in satisfaction. "Thanks, Stella. You're the best."

She smiled wryly. "Good luck! You can do it…"

"I will…" Rayven said as he thought of leaving the guild. However, he recalled that the guild might also be able to help.

He then turned back toward the counter.

"Ah! Stella, one more thing."

The receptionist turned as she looked at Rayven. "What is it? Don't tell me you're adding another duel request?"

Rayven chuckled softly. "No, not this time. I'm looking for something else."

"Something else?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes. Specifically, any Guild postings related to unexplored ruins, missing relics, or mysterious chambers that need investigation. Not related to the 17th dungeon… Maybe even reports of strange mana fluctuations or sealed sites no one has cracked open yet."

Stella paused for a bit as she realized he was serious.

"Ah… You mean exploration-type commissions. There should be something related to that. Let me check."

For a moment, she sifted through a stack of parchment slips in her drawer.

"Hmm… we don't get many of those lately, but…"

Her fingers stopped on one particular sheet marked with a guild stamp and took it out.

"Here… This one was reported by a gold-rank party two weeks ago..."

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