Chapter 37:

I didn't get much sleep that night. In fact, I woke up with my neck aching and an imprint of my fist on my cheek from where I had fallen asleep at my desk. The cube was sitting next to my hand, one side completely red. I kept poking and prodding at the cube with my senses until I finally made it do something. One of the colors lit up, and then, with a little bit more fiddling, I got it to move. There wasn't a real puzzle like having to arrange the colors or anything like that. Rather, just getting them to light up was a bit of a challenge because each time I lit up another one, it would change a little bit. I would have to do some other sort of action with the mana to get it to respond as if it was teaching me all the different ways that I could move mana, which I suppose it probably was.

With the light shining in the window, I put it away, done with my experimentation for now, and rushed downstairs for breakfast. I only had time for the clock to shove a little bit in my face and run out with a makeshift sandwich of eggs, toast, and cheese to make it in time for the meeting place. As I quickly walked through the streets, I scarfed my breakfast and just watched as the city bustled around me. Various people were off going about their business, more than I would expect. They were hung over but still going from shop to shop, preparing for training or whatever they did to fill their time.

I reached our meeting space, where I was the last one there. Everyone else had already ordered food. I placed a quick order for something small and joined them all.

"I hope you weren't waiting too long," I greeted everyone.

Everyone shrugged. "Only been here a few minutes," Helga said.

We spent some time exchanging pleasantries, and before long, I felt it was time to get down to the matter at hand.

"So, how did everyone feel about yesterday?" I asked, looking around, my eyes settling on Astrid's. It was likely her opinion that was going to be the most impactful.

She shrugged. "Well, we certainly did alright. You three aren't unskilled, and our strengths work well together. That isn't to say we are some magically amazing team or anything."

I nodded. "I agree with your assessment. You and Helga slotted into our team well. I'm a little concerned, but I do plan on spending some time trying to learn a little bit of magic myself." I nodded my thanks to Helga about the book. "But that would probably take a decent amount of time."

"No substitute for training," Jonas said, and Helga nodded. Bjorn, though, harrumphed.

"Yes, we need to train, but we also need to fight. None of you," he said, gesturing to the four of us, "are used to real combat."

I looked at him with a raised eyebrow. I hadn't been fighting my whole life like he had, but I spent the last six months in constant death battles, Jonas even longer.

"Not with humans," he said to Jonas and me, "but with beasts and hunting. We must run the dungeon as much as possible and hone those killer instincts."

Jonas looked thoughtful. "We promised we'd train Helga," he reminded him.

Bjorn waved his hand. "Training can be done in the dungeon."

On some level, I agreed with him. We wanted to spend as much time as possible. That's how we earned money. That's how we earn levels. But I didn't think that was the best way to work on team composition, where one mistake meant we had to start over again.

"I think we need to spend a decent amount of time training, too," I said.

Surprisingly, I didn't have to say that—that was Jonas.

"We can fight in a challenge, sure, but we need to know how to work together and communicate. And that's going to take time to talk. Long hours of talking and planning," he said, glancing at Astrid.

Astrid looked thoughtful but nodded. "Yes. We need to come up with strategies and learn how to implement tactics on the fly better. No offense, Miles, but you're clearly new at the whole strategy thing."

I shrugged. "None taken. I'm not even sure I'm the best one for the job."

All four of them seemed to agree on that, but no one had any alternatives.

Bjorn grumbled. "Yeah, we can train today, but I think it's a waste of time."

"Noted. Let's spend several hours training, and then we can run the challenge again. We still need to get us all suited up with more suitable weapons," I said, and perhaps we can even get you some more spells," I addressed Astrid and Helga.

Helga seemed indifferent, but Astrid nodded. "Yes, we are going to need more power. I was thinking about how we'd run that last fight again, and I had some ideas," she said.

Our dungeon run that evening didn't go much better. We made a little more progress, but everyone left frustrated despite getting closer to affording some useful tools. Tomorrow would likely be similar, but we would have the equipment the day after, even if it was the most basic swords or something for Bjorn, Jonas, and me. I did find that I had to sharpen my knife, and Helga did mention having to pay for repairs on her sword, but it seemed to be mostly the cost of doing business. The only one who was really making out was Astrid, who didn't really use any resources nor was getting hit.

When I got home this time, I focused more on the book, the puzzle sitting to the side. I cracked open the tome for the first time and began to read. It was more of a foundational theory text than it was a grimoire or a spell book. I wasn't sure why they both had them on there, but perhaps it was one of the few things they could bring with them from the Lesser Hall. Still, it gave me a decent grounding on how mana worked, where it came from, and how to control it slightly. There were some exercises that I began to do to work on improving my finesse and control.

I stayed up late into the night, reading the book cover to cover a full time before I looked at the cube regretfully and decided to just go to bed. It was very late because I had already been dragging on one night without a good night's sleep.

We fell into a bit of a routine. We would train, Jonas and Bjorn would argue that training was a waste of time, while Helga and Astrid looked on awkwardly, and I tried to mediate. Then we'd run the dungeon, maybe get a little bit farther, and then I would go study magic. As soon as we could, we each bought basic swords, and that helped us get a few rooms farther, which increased the profit. But we were still a significant ways away from that 20% mark, and judging based on our current progress, I wasn't sure we were going to make it. It was going to be close, and we would need to get better weapons or something else.

After a week, I finally had a breakthrough with the puzzle that Loki gave me. Every side was lit up, and the cube shimmered and vanished. Just like that, it was gone, but not entirely gone. I could still sense it in the ambient magic, the mana spelling out a simple rune that read, "Congratulations." I rolled my eyes at the silly trick and pushed my bed aside to carve my ritual circle on the ground. It would be good to check my progress, and maybe I could choose a class.

Level: 8

Status: Tier 4: Valhalla Proper

Weapon proficiencies

Sword: F-9

Spear: F-2

Striking: F-7

Halberd: D-3

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Dagger: D-2

Grappling: F-7

Spells:

Mana Sensor

Stats

Strength: 33

Speed: 36

Constitution: 12

Focus: 3

Free Points: 0

Blessing: Loki's Eye

Class: Awaiting Selection

Strength: +0

Speed: +0

Constitution: +0

Question Everything

Focus: +2

Jester Shop Access

Additional effects: ???

Available Classes:

Jester of Valhalla:

The Jester of Valhalla is a class that combines humor with might, thriving on the battlefield with a flamboyant style that mocks enemies and amuses allies. They wield an assortment of unconventional weapons, often using humor to disarm opponents both literally and figuratively. Their ability to taunt and confuse foes makes them invaluable in turning the tide of battle, their antics a distraction that provides critical openings for more serious warriors to exploit.

In addition to their combat prowess, Jesters of Valhalla possess a deep connection to the spirit of celebration and revelry that defines Valhalla itself. They can inspire their companions with rousing tales and songs of past glories, boosting morale and even temporarily enhancing the abilities of their comrades. Their performances can invoke the favor of the gods, granting blessings or unleashing minor miracles in the midst of battle.

Loki's Mouth Piece:

Loki's Mouth Piece is a master manipulator and silver-tongued diplomat skilled in the arts of persuasion, deception, and espionage. Spreading Loki's word is their highest calling. Blessed by Loki, they possess an uncanny ability to weave lies into truths and truths into powerful narratives, bending the will of others to their own purposes. They are often found at the center of intrigue, whether in the courts of kings or the midst of clandestine operations.

This class also has a unique affinity for illusion magic, allowing them to create convincing mirages and disappear into the shadows. They can mislead enemies with phantom images or cause chaos with their words alone. Loki's Mouth Piece can turn even the most dire situations to their advantage, using their wits and charm to escape danger and outsmart opponents.

Note: If you are stupid enough to choose this one, you'll get what you deserve. --L

Swordsman:

The Swordsman is a paragon of martial skill, specializing in the mastery of bladed weapons. Their training is rigorous and relentless, honing their reflexes, precision, and strength to unparalleled levels. With a blade in hand, they are a force to be reckoned with, capable of executing intricate techniques and devastating strikes that can cleave through armor and bone alike.

In addition to their physical prowess, Swordsmen often follow a code of honor, embodying the virtues of courage, discipline, and loyalty. They are not merely warriors but also protectors and leaders, often stepping into roles that require both martial and moral strength. Their presence on the battlefield can inspire allies and intimidate foes, making them a central figure in any conflict.

Spearman :

The Spearman is a versatile and deadly combatant specializing in the use of spears and polearms. Their reach and agility make them formidable opponents, able to keep enemies at bay while delivering swift and precise strikes. Spearmen excel in both offensive and defensive maneuvers, using their weapons to create a barrier that is difficult to breach.

Beyond their combat skills, Spearmen often serve as scouts and vanguards, using their keen senses and strategic acumen to navigate and exploit the terrain. Their training includes an understanding of battlefield tactics and formations, allowing them to coordinate and lead units effectively. Spearmen are invaluable in both solo engagements and large-scale battles, their presence often turning the tide of conflict.

Trickster's Muse:

The Trickster's Muse is a captivating crafter who draws inspiration from Loki's cunning and creativity. They possess a talent for both illusion and charm, weaving spells that can bewilder enemies and beguile allies. Their magic is as unpredictable as it is potent, capable of transforming the mundane into the extraordinary with a mere gesture or word.

Trickster's Muses are also adept at storytelling and performance, using their artistic gifts to inspire and influence those around them. Their presence can uplift spirits and strengthen resolve, making them a cherished companion in any adventuring party. Whether through magical prowess or sheer charisma, the Trickster's Muse embodies the spirit of ingenuity and unpredictability that defines their patron deity.

Fool of the Wilds:

The Fool of the Wilds is a whimsical and unpredictable class, embodying the untamed spirit of nature and the cunning of the trickster. They thrive in natural environments, drawing power from the land and its creatures to fuel their abilities. Their connection to the wild allows them to summon beasts, control plants, and harness the elements to confound and combat their enemies.

In addition to their nature-based powers, Fools of the Wilds are known for their eccentric and erratic behavior. They often adopt a playful and carefree attitude, which belies their deep understanding of the natural world and its mysteries. This unpredictable nature makes them difficult to anticipate and even harder to defeat, as they can adapt and change their tactics with the fluidity of the wilds they inhabit.

Arcane Fool:

The Arcane Fool is a master of magical mischief, blending traditional spellcasting with the chaotic influence of Loki. They revel in the unpredictability of their craft, using a wide array of spells to create confusion and mayhem on the battlefield. Their magic is characterized by its versatility and spontaneity, often producing unexpected and dazzling effects.

Arcane Fools are also scholars of ancient runes and mystical lore, using their knowledge to enhance their magical prowess and devise clever tricks. Their affinity for deception allows them to manipulate the fabric of reality itself, making them formidable opponents and valuable allies. Despite their seemingly frivolous demeanor, Arcane Fools possess a deep understanding of the forces they wield and the consequences of their actions.

Fool of the Runes:

The Fool of the Runes is a practitioner of ancient rune magic, using the symbols of power to cast spells and alter the course of events. They are adept at inscribing runes on various surfaces, imbuing objects and locations with magical properties. Their runes can provide protection, enhance abilities, or unleash devastating attacks, making them versatile and unpredictable in combat.

In addition to their rune-crafting skills, Fools of the Runes are known for their unconventional thinking and creativity. They often approach problems from unique angles, using their runes in unexpected ways to achieve their goals. Their deep connection to the mystic symbols they wield gives them insights into the hidden workings of the world, allowing them to see and manipulate the threads of fate.

Loki's Fool:

Loki's Fool is the quintessential trickster, embodying the essence of chaos and cunning. They are masters of deception and subterfuge, using their skills to manipulate events and outwit their foes. Blessed by Loki, they have a natural affinity for trickery and illusion, making them unpredictable and dangerous opponents.

Beyond their talents for deception, Loki's Fools possess a deep understanding of human nature and the workings of fate. They can read and influence the emotions and intentions of others, turning situations to their advantage with ease. Their unpredictable nature makes them both a valuable ally and a formidable adversary, as they can adapt to any situation and turn the tables on their enemies in the blink of an eye.

Note: Good luck with this one --L