“Why did he pass out again?

“He is probably in tremendous pain with his injuries, Marigold. Give him time to come back on his own.”

After a moment of hesitation, the first voice, Marigold? Suddenly asks in a strange accent, “Is Captain Gram still outside, Master Healer Bavo?” Captain Gram? Am I at a military compound?

Wait…what was that I saw earlier? Was that a Hobbit? Am I surrounded by angry small people?

Before his thoughts can continue down a rabbit hole of confusion, the voice of ‘Master Bavo’ rings out in the rooms again with a more refined tone, “Yes, but go ahead and let him know our friend is beginning to stir.”

Panic rocks through Jay as this Master Bavo begins to move in his direction, “Sir?... Human? I can sense your consciousness starting to wake. Go slowly, but I am coming to your bedside, and we’ll see what we can do about that voice.”

The raw kindness in the voice sets some of Jay’s nerves at ease while he acutely becomes aware of the aches throughout his body. Forcing his eyes to crack open, the same patterned ceiling appears in his view.

The only difference is the new figure now taking up his view. Who, I presume, is Master Bavo. At first glance, his eyes seem to glow a soothing bright white, and he possesses a head of neat, dirty blonde hair with streaks of grey running through. With a few scars spattered around the face, a smile on Bavo’s lips seems to draw you into a sense of comfort.

Jay parts his lips to speak, but a strangled “....Ack!” is all he seems to get out of his parched throat.

The smile on Bavo’s lips seems to grow firm while he raises a glowing hand into the air. “May I?” While indicating towards his body.

A combination of the kind look in Bavo’s eyes, his mind being numb from pain and exhaustion, and the feeling of trust radiating from the mysterious healer cause Jay to give a slight nod. Without another word, Bavo brings his hand to lie on Jay’s chest.

Even as Jay watches, he can feel a comforting warmth from the hand spread throughout his body. Paying particular attention to his throat and shoulder. Is this magic? This feeling is incredible. While not gone, the aches and pains seem…less? But more importantly, where the hell am I? No way this is Earth…

Along with Bavo’s hand being pulled away, Jay notices a cold and uncomfortable feeling last a moment where it rested before fading. People must be addicted to that feeling here. With it taken away so suddenly, if I was more susceptible to addiction, I could already see myself going to great lengths to experience it again.

His thoughts are drawn to a soft cough from Bavo, who has a mirthful grin across his lips. As Jay's attention refocuses on the healer, "You will likely have noticed the feeling after I finished." Briefly, a grim look flits across Bavo's features. "It is required I tell all that due to my class, there are risks to the healing I provide. Stronger levels of healing come with greater drawbacks to mental health, so I could only provide a smaller spell."

…Okay, so spell? And there was a risk to my mental health too?.... Well, maybe not a big one due to what he described as a 'smaller spell.' Confusion must have been evident on Jay’s features as Bavo kindly smiles again, “No need to fret, child. All will be explained shortly once Hartmut arrives.”

Hartmut? Once more, Jay opens his mouth to speak, “...ah-?” Quickly cut off with a cough, he clears his throat carefully and takes a deep breath, “Hartmut? Spells? Who are you? Where am I? What…what was that beast that attacked me before? Will I become addicted to that feeling from earlier?” Chest heaving from the barrage of questions that have been holed up inside.

Master Bavo raises his brows and lets out a short laugh; he takes a deep breath of his own and launches into a speedy tirade of his own, “Hartmut is our Council Leader; he will explain more as he arrives. Know that he is fair and just but puts our safety before all else. Yes, spells. I used [A Gentle Touch] on you to heal your throat and bring peace to other wounds. No, you will not become addicted to that feeling so long as it is within moderation. My class brings with it great power but equally terrible costs.”

Before Jay can think about anything, Bavo takes a quick breath and jumps back in without pause. “My name is Master Bavo, and I am the Head Healer in the village. You are in the world of Eshor, in the nation of Agra. We are a nation of Halflings that sit in the Windful Plains. Currently, you find yourself inside the healer’s hut of the village. Room 4, with excellent space and comfortable bed.”

Seeming to laugh at his own joke, he suddenly gains a more severe demeanor, “As for your encounter…that is known as a [Carnage Lion]. One of the many horrendous results from the last Break to occur. We’ll not get into those issues quite yet, as it seems we are just out of time. Hartmut and Huebald have arrived.”

Jay opens his mouth to respond, but his brain goes haywire from the multitude of questions flying through his brain. That…is a lot to take in. I can take the new world thing; with all things considered, that makes some small amount of sense. Spells, and whatever the hell a [Carnage Lion]? What is a Break? I feel like I’m getting a migraine just thinking about these things.

Not allowing him another moment to speak, Bavo’s eyes show a mirthful gleam at the tiny bit of innocent chaos he performed. He began to almost flow out of the room as another imposing figure appears, “All shall be answered, friend. Our dear Hartmut will handle it from here. Come, Marigold, we have others to care for. Bye for now.” A sweeping wave is all the trace of Master Bavo…other than a small familiar form dashing out after him.

Confusion, still warring with slight panic, results in Jay’s eyes flicking to the two new Halflings standing in the doorway and walking toward him.

The lead poses an imposing figure even for his shorter frame, between 4.5 and 5 feet tall. He walks as if flowing between each step. No wasted movement, and the ground seems to flicker where he steps. Dark black hair hangs around his face in a mess of chaotic order. Each strand is strangely in place for the appearance shown, though. Deep brown eyes that seem to waver into the depth of night seem to suck in the light around them. His face is broad and sturdy. Projecting quiet and calm confidence to those around.

The other stands slightly behind and, as of now, is the tallest Halfling Jay has seen. While he has only technically met four total, this man’s stature of over 5.5 feet tall seems like an irregularity among their race. With sharp features and a hooked nose, he already sticks out as odd. However, his obviously dyed green hair and glowing green eyes seem over the top. Not to mention his robe that appears to be made of all plant matter. Leaves patchworked together with tiny roots and vines holding some seams together. Bark grows out on parts of his body like plate armor across a knight.

Both still maintain a no-shoes, no-problem vibe. Heh, nice. Bringing bits of levity takes the weight off the life-altering situation Jay finds himself in.

Neither attempts to speak while they walk over, and Jay can't help but grow agitated by the situation. This is becoming aggravating. I feel more confused than when in the clearing. Time to get some answers…As he begins to speak, the imposing figure cuts in, “I’m sure you have questions, especially after speaking with Bavo. That insufferable man.” A chagrined look crosses his eyes, “I feel as though I must apologize for my Head Healer. He finds himself carried away by his flights of merriment and chaos. It is hard enough to reel him in normally. Let alone with your presence.”

There it was again. They knew what was happening. Bavo spoke like he was not shocked by a strange human appearing from nowhere and ran Jay around in circles while only ever saying what he wanted to say. Furious anger at his helplessness pushes aside all caution and thought, “What is going on?!? The man…Bavo clearly knew something, but now I have information with no context! What the hell! I’m sitting here reeling from the fact that I have literally been teleported to a new world, and I’m then led in circles while sinking deeper into a puzzle that I’ve been dropped into. Courtesy would be nice! Maybe a handbook!”

Probably not the wisest action to snap while being helpless in bed, but this is crap. Taking a deep breath to continue his impromptu speech, Jay feels his initial words die on his lips. “I…just don’t understand.” A pleading tone enters his voice as he pushes the words out.

The lead figure stops for a moment before taking a seat next to the bed while the other man falls into place, standing behind him. Jay forces his head towards the imposing person in the chair and notices a considering look in his eye. "...Bavo is in the wrong. I believe he did not consider the full impact his words and actions would have on one such as you. However, this is why I am here. You can ask any questions that come to mind, but first, let me make introductions."

Gesturing to himself before the other man. “My name is Hartmut Stoor, and I am the Council Head of this village. While the man behind me is Huebald Elvellon, our Head Mage. For now, just consider this a nameless border city, please. I will explain why that information is confidential shortly.”

Hartmut clears his throat and continues, “I’d like to formally welcome you to our world, Eshor. We know your status as a Traveler.” Holding up his hand to forestall the onslaught of questions in Jay’s mind. “Our world has been known to stretch its grasp beyond the fabric of our known dimension. During this period, those from other worlds are pulled through magic currents to fall upon Eshor.

“I won’t dive into the history quite yet as that is not important for this discussion, but let it suffice that our world grants boons to those stolen from other dimensions. First, as I am sure you’ve already noticed, is your ability to choose a class. If it is not too forward, have you chosen yet?”

Jay begins to respond but stops himself. Should I trust these two? Is it even possible to lie? For all I know, they can read whatever class I choose. Firming his decision to respond with trust, “No, the…attack…happened as the screen appeared, and it hasn’t come back since I lost focus on it.”

Nodding his head, Hartmut allows himself a small sign of relief. "We will discuss the classes more, but the choice should still be open to you, and we will simply offer advice. I am sorry about your friend, though. Were you close?"

“No, I mean we were taken from the same place, but I never knew his name or more than the fact he got a specific drink on his way out. So, he’s…” Jay finds himself unable to utter the last words he knew were true. Nothing could survive that beast…my neck was nearly torn in two. A shiver runs up his spine with these thoughts.

Hartmut fills in the words Jay could not speak with sorrow, “Yes, he has passed. We sent another team out to attempt to bring back any remains, but it has already been over a day. The predators on the plains do not leave us much time to recover the dead.”

Grief overwhelms Jay once more as the thoughts of him turning to run for his life flit through his head. Squeezing his eyes shut, why? Why is this so unfair? I was happy, and while I did not know the man. He seemed pleased with his life too. To have his life torn away so suddenly…all by luck and circumstance. The lion could have just as easily stolen my life instead of his. Would he have stood to help if we switched positions?

With no answer to these questions, Jay forces himself to take a couple deep breaths before opening his eyes to nod at Hartmut.

Hartmut examines Jay for a few moments and comes to some internal decisions. "I'd also like to welcome you to our great nation. The Halflings call many corners of the world our home, but Agra holds a special place in most of our hearts." A smile blossoms on his stern face, and pride is evident in his voice. "Our ancestors called this place home long ago, and we work to uphold their ideals in our society.

“Now that introductions are out of the way. I must express a few important notes so we can start a relationship without deceit.”

Jay could swear he saw an apologetic look cross Hartmut’s eyes as he opened his mouth and spoke in a much more formal tone. “The nation of Agra and Halflings as a whole will allow you time to stay in our village to heal and acclimate to the world around you. During this time, we will provide advice and seek to prepare you for most situations you will find yourself in.”

“Thank you for all of that. I cannot beg-” As Jay starts to thank Hartmut for his help, the man holds up a hand to keep Jay from continuing.

“Don’t thank me yet, son. Now comes some worse news. After you are deemed fit and able. You will be required to leave Halfling lands. We will assist in providing information on various locations you may travel to. I am genuinely sorry for what will be an abrupt end to your stay with us, but we survive by keeping our cities under our enemy's radar. Your being here will severely complicate our conflicts with the surrounding Kingdoms. Once more, I am sorry that this is the situation we find ourselves in.” Hartmut finishes with a soft sigh and lets the silence stretch while Jay comes to terms with this sudden influx of information from the Council Head.

Jay finds his mind focusing on Hartmut's last bit of news; they're already planning on kicking me out? They are not the worst landlords ever, I guess. At least I have over a month's notice, but still... “I have to go? Couldn’t I just hide somewhere that they couldn’t find? If more beasts like that lion are out there, then I’m not sure I will ever be ready.”

The man lets out a short laugh before noticing Jay’s rising anger, and he raises both arms to placate him. Hartmut meets Jay’s eyes with a jovial grin, “That is likely the last thing you need to worry about. Not to make fun at your expense, but you have an interesting journey ahead of you where I doubt [Carnage Lions] will be the mightiest of foes.”

With an exasperated groan, Jay responds, “But how is that even possible? I was practically torn apart, and I doubt I’ll even be on my feet for weeks.”

Hartmut stows his laughter, but a satisfied grin remains as he leans back in the chair onto the two back legs. Using surprising dexterity, he perfectly balances himself while explaining, "Like I mentioned earlier, Traverlers are granted boons. The specifics are not well known from group to group, but some facts are true with each generation. One, they can choose whatever Base Class the System has recorded. Two, they are granted more powerful iterations of the skills these classes can access. Finally, Travelers tend to advance quickly in levels due to System alterations. Which Huebald will begin to go over in-depth soon."

This…could be worse, honestly. Forgetting the death, life-changing situation, and complications of being in a new world. All I can do now is roll with the punches…Even with these things running through his mind, Jay voices some questions concerning what is now likely his life. "So, I can still choose a base class even though the list is gone? Also, what class should I even choose? Even going through a couple options shows the incredible scope of possibilities. Where do I even begin?"

The smile on Hartmut’s face widens as he finally turns to the other man, Huebald. “That seems to be your cue, my friend. I’ll leave you to it; after all, I’m quite the busy man.” Without another word, he hops from the chair and gracefully lands on his feet before vanishing in a swirl of dust and shadow.

Wha…he definitely just vanished. Unless someone spiked my morphine…Hah! Don’t even have morphine, only addictive and grey healing magic. Whoo… Yeah, I’m just going to ignore the whole - here one second and gone the next trick.

As the dust settles, Jay swears he can hear Hubald mutter, “What a lay-a-bout. Always using his little vanishing act when real work comes knocking.” With a huff and an eye roll, Huebald Elvellon steps forward into Jay’s focus.

Huebald says not a word and simply stares at Jay. Which results in an unwilling staring contest.

Seconds turn to minutes before Huebald cracks and snaps, heh..and loses the match, “Well!? Are you going to stare like a simpleton, or will you ask questions? I’m already wasting my time sitting here to babysit you through what need not be explained. Shall I hold your hand while you use the bathroom, or can you handle yourself like a young toddler?”

An indignant feeling wells up in Jay, “Now hold on one seco-”

“Hold on!? First, you waste my time by enacting a driveling contest to stare at me. Then you decide that is not enough and have the audacity to ask for more of my time to be wasted. Use some basic level reasoning to realize why you are a fool.” Huebald continues to rant and lecture without taking a single breath between words. It is actually kind of impressive when you think about it.

Eventually, after enduring the undeserving rant from Huebald, Jay can no longer take it. Like a dam was broken, a laugh rips out of Jay, and the intensity grows into a sobbing noise until his eyes flick toward Huebald. Who happens to look confused and concerned at Jay's reaction.

In a desperate voice, Jay pleads in a choked-up laugh, "What am I supposed to do? I'm stranded in a world surrounded by those who have treated me with nothing but disrespect. I watched a man die due to my inadequacies not even two days ago before nearly being killed. Now I sit here harassed by a man that I only just met. And why? Because I was wasting his time. I…I just…I am struggling to even comprehend what is happening." After a couple of deep breaths, "Can you understand any of that? Please, I need help." Finishing his rant took more energy than expected, and he found himself drifting off. Talking to Bavo and Hartmut must have taken more out of me than I thought.

As Jay fights an internal battle to ward off sleep, Huebald has an internal struggle of his own. Looking at the floor and whispering softly to not allow Jay to hear, “Not a killer then. Unless he is a spectacular actor, he is just another unfortunate casualty in the magical web that traps Travelers. He just wants to live.”

This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

With a soft and sorrowful shake of his head, he calls out to Jay, “You are right, of course. I’ll be upfront and honest like our dear Council Head. We had to be careful in who you were; the power you possess could be terrible in the wrong hands…” Huebald stops and looks up to find Jay asleep and snoring in bed.

As he turns to walk back outside to notify Bavo or Marigold of his departure, he can’t help but mutter to himself, “We’ll repay you for this unkindness, kid. Needs demand action and all that…”

----------------------------------------

Pain and aches greet Jay once more as he stirs. The familiar ceiling comes into his sight with a sense of deja vu. I really need to stop passing out like that.

A recognizable cold feeling is centered around his chest. So, Master Bavo was here recently. The pain does seem lesser today. With sheer force of will, Jay examines the room around him and finds his neck does not protest as much as the days before.

Bavo was right about the space being big. This is better than most hospital rooms I’ve been in back on Earth. Melancholy overwhelms him for a moment, but Jay shakes it off and focuses back on the space.

His bed is pushed against the far side, opposite the door. Off to the left is a wooden door that is slightly ajar and allows Jay to view inside. Is that…a toilet? And a shower! Shock rocks him as he voices a thought, “So, they seem to have some kind of plumbing, at least. Not entirely at a developing country level, but close.”

Continuing to observe, Jay notices a beautifully carved dresser made from a solid block of stone and a lounge area with chairs spaced evenly around a coffee table. The walls were anything but bare. Paintings hung around the room depicting various scenes of battle or miracles.

One has a hooded figure in white robes standing before a human army as light radiates outward. Another shows a field of ravenous plants in front of an outstretched hand that bathes in the blood of an army containing four-armed zealots.

The door opens once more, and Marigold steps into the room before shock ripples across her features. "Oh! You're awake! Sorry about Master Bavo. He tends to get carried away to rid his boredom. One time, he decided an apprentice was not moving quickly enough from each patient, so Master sent a [Screaming Light] to harass him from place to place. Don't worry, though; the light is harmless. Just lets loose a scream directly into the ear of the target until they begin to move. They are notoriously slow, so even a sloth could outrun one. Another time he decided the warriors were not performing, so he…"

Noticing Jay's glazed look, her cheeks glow a shallow red. "Ah, sorry for that. I tend to ramble. My pa always said that once I get going, it's like stopping a herd of buffalo. 'Trampling all others in your path to be heard above the rest,' or something like that. Which reminds me of-"

Jay attempts to interrupt the Halfling's babbling, "Uhm, Marigold?"

"-the time that we went to another village. This one was faaaaar across Agra's plains, and guess what they had? Flightless birds! They ride around on flightless birds! I mean, who does that? Obviously, [Giant Plains Mice] are ideal for tall grass. Speaking of-" Instead of attempting to interrupt again, he just goes along for the ride and lets her ramble on about various things.

Eventually, Huebald appears in the doorway to save him from the word-laden Halfling. Seeing him results in Marigold shutting down her unending onslaught. "That's quite enough, Marigold. Give the man some peace. He looks to have just woken up." With a raised eyebrow and a mirthful glare thrown at Marigold, she lets out a short squeak before dashing by Huebald.

She throws a final wave in Jay’s direction on her way out with a wide smile. “Bye! We’ll talk again soon. I have some other stories to tell you.”

Still bewildered at being overwhelmed by Marigold, Jay refocuses as Huebald approaches. Looking much the same as yesterday, Huebald has a peculiar look as he takes the seat Hartmut was in the day before. He looks Jay over and leans back. "We've made many apologies to you so far, but let me make one more." He deeply nods, "You have my sincere apologies for how I acted yesterday."

Oh, well, it's not like I'm in much of a position to hold a grudge. “Uhm, thank you?”

A small smile spreads across Huebald's sorrowful face. "I'd like to offer some explanation before we dive into the real subject for our discussion."

As he is about to continue, Jay notices a flower begin to grow and bloom along the bark on Huebald’s arm. That…doesn’t seem normal. That kind of growth in that short of time? Impossible…or a spell? Noticing Jay’s drifting attention toward his arm, Huebald blushes slightly and tears the bloomed flower free. He attempts to act nonchalant as he stuffs it in his pocket.

Lightly coughing to distract from the moment, "The reason why I came on so strongly yesterday was due to a couple factors. Travelers are an unknown variable in many cases. Most grow to incredible power in their chosen field, which has been used for great and terrible effects."

Briefly pausing, Huebald looks toward Jay. "I'm sorry, would you like some water or perhaps something to eat? Bavo's spells maintain your sustenance levels, but something tangible is also good for recovery."

A loud rumble vibrates the room from Jay's stomach now that he mentions food. I do not feel hungry, but there is also a strange emptiness along with it. “I guess something small would be nice.” A slightly embarrassed smile grows on his face.

Huebald simply nods, and a genial shine appears in his eyes. He flips his right hand to face his palm toward the ceiling. A soft greenish glow appears around his hand and from his eye sockets, then two things happen at once. A vine begins to grow rapidly on the ceiling before dropping down to hang before Jay, with a strange fruit forming at the end. Bright red and thorns sticking out with a hard outer shell, the fruit looks slightly dangerous to touch.

However, this is not the most fantastic thing from Huebald's actions. Two saplings from the room's floor seem to grow right on top of the stone and begin intertwining. They twist and spin around one another before reaching about 3 feet in height. At this point, branches sprout from the top of the small trunks and weave together to form a pristine wooden bowl at their peaks.

"Ah, stretching my magic with harmless plants is always a pleasure." Huebald heaves himself to his feet and steps towards the wooden bowl. He sinks into contemplation for a moment and glances at Jay, who is still watching with wide eyes.

Nodding to himself, Huebald comes to a decision. "This will act as reparation for my previous actions yesterday. [Diluted Nectar of the Gods, Ambrosia]." A glow with dark green undertones rises from the bottom of the pedestal holding the bowl. The magic gains momentum as it climbs and as it reaches the top. A beautiful wordless song rises in the air, and the green glow instantly collects in the center of the pristine bowl.

It begins to spin and creates a whirlpool that gains speed. A bright glow begins to radiate from the bowl, becoming too bright, resulting in Jay looking away while closing his eyes. The light still echoes through his mind while the voice continues to perform the magnificent ballad for the gods.

Seconds pass before the light dims, and the singing quiets. Is it over? What the hell did Huebald just do?

Opening his eyes to a squint, Jay sees Huebald standing by the pedestal while looking quite pleased with himself. Inside the bowl in front of him now rests an amber liquid with a greenish tint. Looking at the liquid, or ambrosia? inside the bowl bestows a refreshing feeling to spread through him. That is when the smell reached him. A sweet and succulent scent catches his nose and gives him a revitalizing energy going from his toes to his ears. The influx of this puts Jay in a daze.

What the hell? What in all of two worlds did he just make? If this comes with the smell, then the taste…

A sigh rings out, “Ahh. I haven’t had cause to do that in ages. Like the smell, huh? Thankfully, this is a much lower tier of ambrosia than what the gods can make. So it shouldn't be a strong alcohol. However, the healing effects should still be present and plenty. Let me grab you a cupful, and we'll get into the real conversation."

Huebald reaches toward the pedestal, and the intertwining trunks grow outward to meet his hand. Weaving together to form a fresh cup, much like the bowl.

Unceremoniously, he dips it into the ambrosia and walks forward to hand Jay a near-overflowing cup. "Go ahead and put this back all at once. It won't get you quite on your feet, but you won't be looking like someone stuck pieces of a human together."

Jay takes hold of the cup, and a staggering smell comes with the closer proximity. Blinking through teared-up eyes, he swirls the cup of liquid and notices its absurd thickness. This is like a gel. Oh hell, this is not gonna go down well. “Just drink it whole? And it’ll heal me?” Jay glances at Huebald with a skeptical look. I doubt this is a trick; feels too elaborate when I'm sitting here without any ability to defend myself.

"Aye, while it is the diluted version. The effects will be noticeable almost immediately. Just don't come crying back to me for more. Already hard to find the right time for the skill, but now that it's used, we need to harvest as much ambrosia as possible." Noticing Jay's skepticism, Huebald taunts him slightly while feeling a bit indignant.

Well, no time like the present. And with that, Jay tilts his head back to start chugging the liquid. The moment it touches his tongue, the energy begins to be absorbed into his body while concentrating on his worst wounds. Jay does not even notice the gel-like consistency as more flows down his throat. He relishes the feeling of comfort and the unfathomable taste of the liquid. This…this is the diluted version? No wonder it’s called the nectar of the gods. If only Zeus could see me now, heh.

Too quickly, the cup is bottomed out, and the revitalizing energy begins to fade. Jay closes his eyes to enjoy the last remnants left by the ambrosia and finds himself at peace for the first time since arriving in this world. My time hasn’t been my own since being taken here. These few moments, though…I’ll be a little selfish.

Seeing Jay take his time to enjoy the ambrosia, Huebald knows he made the right call.

Eventually, he opens his eyes to see a smug look across Huebald’s face. “That was…” Jay finds himself at a loss for words trying to describe that fleeting sensation.

Huebald merely nods, "It's a feeling unlike any other. Those who drink too much become lost in it. Killing and stealing to chase after one more taste of the nectar of the gods." He makes a sweeping gesture with his arm at Jay. "But the effects are unimaginable. Take a look for yourself." A snap of his fingers results in a full-body mirror materializing on the ceiling above his bed.

Letting his head fall back into the pillow to view his own body. Jay couldn’t help but be astonished. Wow…just wow. No scar is left from his run-in with the [Carnage Lion] and his skin almost has a shine to it. While before, he was skinny and looked slightly underweight for his frame. Now he has muscles in all the right places. Not overwhelming in size, but a lean muscle that looked honed from years of use.

Shock apparent in his eyes, Jay looks back toward Huebald with a question dancing on his lips. “...how?”

Huebald chuckles at his expression, "It is always interesting seeing people's first reaction to ambrosia. The nectar brings you closer to the gods themselves. Allowing you to be a closer reflection of who you want to be. You won't see any more effects from the diluted stuff, but the real thing? I've only heard myths…" A look of wonder flits across his features as he speaks about ambrosia. Jay can hear the longing in his voice.

“If that was diluted, then I’m not even sure if I’d want to try the real stuff.” A shiver rolls through Jay as he thinks of how overpowering actual pure ambrosia would be.

"Aye, a good thought to have. Many mortal men and women have gone mad from a single drop." He brings his hands together into a loud clap. "BUT! That is not why we're here. Now that you can function somewhat normally. We have some items of interest to speak of. First, we'll talk about classes if that sounds appropriate?" Huebald looks toward Jay in askance.

Happy to move on to some other concerns; now, let's see what all the hubbub is about this whole class thing. “Sounds good to me. You’ve all made it pretty clear how important this is. Hit me with it.”

Huebald shows a confused look at that, "Hit you? Why I'd never-"

Seeing the misinterpretation, Jay quickly interrupts him, “No no no, that is just a saying where I come from. It means to just go ahead and tell me.” Probably should remember that. The last thing I need is to be labeled crazy for going around spewing nonsense to people.

Nodding his head in understanding and taking a breath in relief, "Difference in culture, it seems. Anyways, I'll 'hit you with it."

Huebald takes a moment to collect his thoughts, "Classes are the base of most sentient life on the planet. Some, like the Jinnee, saw no need to take classes but still integrated themselves with the System. However, most life needs these classes to stand as equals among the vicious, powerful monsters that roam worldwide. Let alone even stepping foot into a Forbidden Area.

"To give you a foundation to build on, those of this world can receive any base class for which they meet the System requirements. No one knows why classes are given to some people and not others, but there are clues for the basic ones. Warriors need to dedicate themselves to training and fighting for months. Eventually, this results in a class being granted." Huebald halts his lecture momentarily as Jay appears to have a question. Nodding his head in Jay's direction, "Yes?"

Thinking for a moment, “Is there a limit to how many classes one can take? And what did you mean by base class?” With how eccentric some of these folks are, I need to keep the conversation as helpful as possible.

Huebald answers as he fiddles with another flower grown from a different spot on his body. "Yes, and no for the first question. There is no defined limit on how many classes one can take, but it is difficult to spread your focus across many fields while maintaining the dedication needed to advance in level. Acts committed under strife and pressure allow for levels to increase. We'll discuss why it is important to focus more in a few moments."

Tearing the flower free and again tucking it into his pocket, "A base class, though? What I mean by that is a class in its most basic form. From what we can tell, there is a nearly unlimited number of them due to Travelers copying down the class options from millennia ago. We wouldn't even know about most of them, without Travelers, until they are achieved by a lucky individual.

"These base classes are important to focus in a direction you choose that fits well with who you are. This is vital to the future of your leveling. At levels 10, 25, and 50, there is an opportunity for what is known as a [Class Consolidation]. You are offered an array of choices reflected by your base classes. Each iteration of [Class Consolidation] becomes more powerful and unique to the individual. We caution young Halflings to choose their path well when they earn a class." Huebald looks pleased with himself after that speech and waits for Jay to ask his questions.

So the good ol' jack of all trades and master of none kind of thing? The whole base class idea is interesting, but class consolidations? That does seem like it would be necessary to focus the further into leveling you get. Okay, question time. "So strife and pressure, huh? What does that mean? Does a cook have to fight in a battle while cooking a steak? That seems a little ambiguous to me. Also, you say choices are reflected by base classes. Is it worth focusing on one class to level mainly and keeping the others you want to consolidate at level 1?" Jay takes a deep breath after letting loose another torrent of questions. Gotta keep the ball rolling in the information department.

As Jay continues to ask questions, the surprise is evident in Huebalds eyes; by the end, a broad smile is apparent across his face. "I think I am going to like you. Great questions. Let's tackle some of these questions by combining them. Strife and pressure are as ambiguous as it gets. So while a cook who attempts to make a steak in battle would receive a variation of the [Battle Cook] class or level up their current class depending on the situation and personality of the person in question. However, another cook who works in a tavern might also level up their class by serving a bigger than usual crowd and working themselves to the bone.

"From what we can gather, the mindset and personality of the person are also vital when considering the classes available to them. Either as a base class or as a consolidation option. As for your focus, while focusing on leveling one class and leaving others at level 1 for consolidation will work. The results are less than ideal. A powerful consolidation comes from dedication to various classes that work together. This is less true at higher levels, but you're not there yet."

A dour look crosses Huebalds face at this point, and with a grave tone, he slowly says, "But there is a catch for Travelers. The System is generous, but it always takes its due. Travelers can choose any base class to start within the System. However, as the person affects the class. The class will affect the person. The class chosen by a Traveler will make adjustments to their personality over decades before it is eventually noticeable. Usually, it is too late by that point. The only way around that is by choosing a class that best fits who you are. Don't look for the most powerful but the most aligned with your nature. The other boons you possess will elevate the base class beyond normal."

With that dire warning, Huebald lets the silence stretch on for a while. Letting Jay come to terms with this information dump.

While the silence builds in the room, Jay’s mind is in shambles. The class I choose will change me? What kind of person would I be if I chose the Slayer class? Or the Harbinger? This…is gonna take some thought. I need to get more answers.

Jay organizes his thoughts before speaking, “So I’ll worry about the other stuff later. You say the System changes Travelers based on their chosen class, but it can be mitigated by fitting it to my nature. What does this mean?”

"Well, from what we know of the past- Gah!" Jay rocks back in surprise, and Huebald slaps his hand down on his thigh to pluck yet another flower to shove into his pocket. Lightly coughing to pull attention away from his strange actions, he continues, "From what we know of [Class Consolidation] options and the Travelers class list. If you focus on each of the entries, you will feel what each one means at its core. Reflect on that feeling and choose the one you think most aligns with who you are."

That actually doesn't sound too bad. There were some attractive options that I think would fit me in that list. But now the question is…how the hell do I get it to come back? "I think I'm getting the point. One more question before I dive into the practically unending list of classes. How do I get it back again?" Jay feels slightly embarrassed, having just now asked, but Huebald waves off the question without concern.

"Simply wish it back. Think to yourself of wanting the list to appear. I'd like to make a selfish request too. Would I be able to record some of the unknown classes listed? It has been a long time since Halflings have spoken to a Traveler. Especially so recently after landing." Huebald wears a pleading look on his face with this question. Obviously, he is a man who cares deeply about acquiring more knowledge.

Shrugging his shoulders, “Sure, I don’t see why not.” Alright, Jay, think about the class list. Class list…just think about the class list…okay…why is this not showing up. Growing agitated, he practically screams in his head, Class List!

The familiar glowing screen reveals itself in his vision, and he begins to peruse the classes.

Class Choices

Harbinger

Change is forced upon the world through peace, death, or fire. Let those who stand against perish or stand aside for the inevitable. The world waits for your touch…

Slayer

Through blood and carnage, only oblivion awaits those who stand in a Slayer's path—walking unfettered across the world without fear of the living, dead, or those between.

Nature Mage

Life and growth follow those with this alignment with the world.

Nature is bent to enact the will of those who walk this path.

Rune Caster

Use the power of runes to alter magic and the fabric of reality.

Champion

A symbol of the people. Stand strong against all opposition with the power of faith.

Worldy Warrior

Adventure and travel the world through the power of martial might.

No secret is left untouched, and no path is untrod.

Worldy Wizard

Adventure and travel the world through the power of magical might.

No secret is left untouched, and no path is untrod.

Warrior

Through the strength of arms and will to fight - let none stand in your way.

Mage

Magical might and research can shape the world. Begin the journey, and take hold of the magic around you.

Defender

Stand firm in the face of adversity, the first line of defense for allies and an impenetrable wall for enemies. Never take a step backward.

Wizard

Crazy theories and creative applications of magic describe a wizard. Integrating mana into themselves, they accept power from the world.

Runner

Integral to society. Runners carry news to a wide area. Allowing the world to stay connected.

Farmer

The backbones of empires and the foundation of Kingdoms. A simple farmer keeps civilization alive.

Alchemist

The path of alchemy is wide and long. Whether it is creating a Philosopher's Stone, crafting miraculous potions, or destroying your enemies in a rain of fire.

…

More

Now, let’s get to work.