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 to 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 strong 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. They allow for 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 Philosophers Stone, crafting miraculous potions, or destroying your enemies in a rain of fire.
…
More
Taking the time to actually look at the classes first offered to him, Jay can’t help but feel a little disgusted by a few. Who the hell would choose something so terrible as a [Slayer]? Killing is literally a part of the description. Not to mention a [Harbinger]. I’ve only just arrived, but choosing to be a center point of change is slightly terrifying.
Sighing and shaking his head, Is this even what I want? To be labeled and forever attached to a class that defines who I am. This…this feels too big, a monumental decision.
Barely knowing anything about the world, it just seems unreasonable to make a choice between even classes that do not sound bad. Like [Researcher], [Runecaster], [Farmer], or even the [Historian] that can be seen further down the list. Jay glances back at Huebald with trepidation, “So, do I have to choose a class? What happens if I decide to wait?”
Acknowledging his nerves, “No, it is not necessary to pick a class soon. From what we know of Travelers, the consequences are not too dire to continue waiting until you find the right fit. The System will not fully integrate you and allow you to view your status until the choice is made.”
Okay, so I’m missing out on a ‘status,’ but…”What does a status do for me, though? Am I at that much of a disadvantage?”
Bobbing his head left and right in thought, “Hmm, yes and no. It is a disadvantage, but not as much as you stand now. A status will allow you to see the information regarding the energies you possess and allow the System to provide extra aid to leveling classes that better utilize those energies.” Seeing Jay’s rising worry, Huebald attempts to calm him down and waves a hand. “Normally, people need classes to provide a modicum of safety for their own wellbeing, but you’ll face no danger as long as you are in this village. That is why I said it is not much of a disadvantage.”
Jay lets a breath out in relief; alright, so it’s not too much of a rush. Hartmut still mentioned I have to leave eventually, so I probably should not take forever choosing, but it is nice to not be pressured in a direction.
He decides to dive right into asking questions that have been bugging him about the class choices. “I looked through some options in the class list, but I’m slightly confused with what you mentioned earlier. A class can alter those who choose to accept it, but what would change in a class like, [Researcher]?” Do they just become more curious? More inclined to search for the unknown?
“Great question.” Huebald leans forward to pluck a growing flower on his shin. “Depending on the class, there can be subtle or obvious changes. From what we know, this heavily affects more Travelers adversely than those from Eshor. Pelleas Holaron, a historian, has looked into many Travelers and compared them with our people. She concluded that Travelers having the freedom to choose any class allows for diametrically opposed elements to be introduced. While Eshor’s people are integrated from birth and must be recognized by the System for their first class.” He snaps his fingers and causes an illusion of a gold man to appear in the air above him. Next to the man is a small dark ball. “Take this example, if a man lives a life centered around healing and helping those around him, and when he arrives in Eshor. The man decides to take a class of an assassin.”
The dark ball merges with the golden figure and begins to corrupt it, slowly at first but quickly gaining speed before it is entirely corrupted with black energy. “An assassin follows a path of murder, and the notion of the path will always be surrounded by death. It is not immediate but with each death of a contract. The more the class will convert the person to be in line with the notion.”
Jay nods his head in understanding while in deep thought. Voices rise in the hallway as a babbling Marigold and Bavo stroll past to see another patient. Her voice fades as he hears a bit, “...course not. You…you don’t know the first things about having a crush, old..old man!...” He cannot help but smile with levity as he listens to her complaints at Bavo. Reminds me of my younger sister…let’s not go there. Shaking his head to rid himself of unneeded thoughts.
From the corner of his eye, Jay sees Huebald snap his fingers, and a scarlet-green light envelopes the floor by his feet. A bizarre root rises with bright vermillion bark covering the outside. Just the appearance gives the impression a single touch would draw blood. The danger is hidden by a simple look.
Once it reaches the height of a coffee table, the root branches out and weaves together to form a cup that quickly fills with liquid. I’m almost afraid to see what is in the cup. Hesitating a moment, Jay gets over his fear and examines the drink. Deep scarlet, almost reminiscent of blood, sap sticks to the inside of the cup. He shudders a bit as Huebald grabs it and takes a deep pull with a satisfied sigh afterward.
With tiny goosebumps, Jay peaks at the fruit still dangling next to him. He feels it deserves a little bit more of a detailed examination after witnessing this magical act. Plump, bright red, and with long curled thorns. Jay gives a mental nod to the evolutionary capabilities of the fruit but has slight confusion too. Usually, fruits are designed to spread seeds far and wide and to be eaten to help with that distribution. Unless the main plant is of a parasitic variety that draws in prey and can somehow manage seed distribution from that.
Huebald takes notice of his attention, “Ah, sorry if this plant is a little disconcerting to look at, friend…” A chastised look crosses his features. “I’ve only just now realized we have yet to have the decency to ask for your name.” Standing with a flourish, Huebald bows at the waist. “I’d be delighted if you’d forget our blunder and offer us a name to call you.” He straightens himself upright with a sincere smile.
Embarrassed by the sudden action, Jay stutters a response before his words stabilize. “N-no, it’s o-okay. This…has been overwhelming for all of us, and you’re responsible for saving my life.” He puts a hand to his chest and gives a deep nod. “My name is Jay. Jay Palmer, it is an honor to meet you, Huebald.”
Huebald nods and sits back down with as much flair as possible. “Back to the object of your fixation. That fruit is called a [Hemathorned Bulb]. The main plant it is based on is of a parasitic nature” Heh knew it. “Animals are attracted by the pheromones given off by the main trunk, and the branches sweep in to stab then drain the prey.” Jay studies the plant with no small amount of trepidation.
Laughing a bit, Huebald continues, “However, this is not true of the fruit. They are simply used as bait for larger herbivores that can break past the outer shell and avoid the thorns. They have a symbiotic relationship with [Mossy Sloths] as their fur is strong enough to ignore the spearing branches, and their jaws and claws can break the shells. This, combined with their nomadic nature, allows the seeds inside the bulb to be taken far from the parent plant.” Taking another sip of the scarlet sap before setting it back down on the root. “Usually, the trees and the sloths are only seen inside the Great Forest, Wosmoidan. The sloths are protected by the Elves and Dryads in that forest.”
Jay feels the need to cut in as he notices something peculiar about the plant's name. A [Hemathorned Bulb]? Hema- is a greek root for blood. “If I may, how do these plants and animals acquire their name? You say it with a particular emphasis on occasion.”
While this might not be vital information, learning a little more about the world around you never hurts. Plus, it distracts me from the life-changing choice I need to make.
Huebald’s eyes brighten as he asks the question; I know that look. It’s nice to see a fellow also interested in learning. “This is yet another truth of Eshor that Pelleas Holaron attempts to answer in her journals, The Rise and Fall of Eshor. It is believed that the System can access all backgrounds integrated into it. Long past, there would be overhauls of names when Travelers appeared, but that has seemed to stabilize over the past few centuries.” Huebald finishes with a thoughtful look as he thinks about the various names that were recorded to have changed.
Before Jay has the chance to cut in, Huebald goes on with something to give Jay pause, “This brings up another subject of intense debate. Is the System sentient? Some clues lend credit to each side, but I tend to lean more toward the ‘yes’ side of things.”
A grumble from Jay’s stomach interrupts Huebald and gives him pause. Noticing Jay’s slight embarrassment, he coughs slightly and says, “Oh, I seem to have gotten off track.” Briefly, his eyes flick back to the fruit hanging from the vine near Jay. “Before getting off track, I said the fruit offers no danger and should be quite safe and delicious to eat.”
Focusing on the fruit with slight skepticism, How do I even eat this visual monstrosity?
Laughter interrupts Jay’s musings as Huebald stands up, “My mistake. I probably should have grown a better-suited fruit. Honestly, though, this plant style is not where my talents lie.” A dark and foreboding look flits through his eyes before the gloom disappears as quickly as it appears. I wonder what that’s about. ”Let me help with the shell. It is too good to go to waste.”
Now that Huebald walks closer, Jay notices how old he actually appears to be. Slight scarring runs along both his face and arms. His hands are weathered and worked while his eyes tell a story of one who has seen horrors and lived. Even with the slightly haunted look, Huebald stands tall with a proud aura around him. A closer inspection of his hair shows a peculiar dye used on brown hair. The dark roots stand out in clear contrast with the bright green.
Reaching for the fruit with a kind smile, he plucks it off the vine and grabs it with both hands. Huebald shows a feat of strength as he splits open the shell with a little twist of his hands, but before he can adequately appreciate the effort. A pleasant fragrance strikes Jay’s nose and stuns him for a moment.
Huebald takes a moment to examine the fruit inside and stretches out a half toward Jay. “Here…oh! I suppose you’ll also need this.” He flips his hand over, palm facing the ceiling, and a spoon grows from a tiny seed in the center. Without taking heed of the magical actions he keeps performing, Huebald simply plops the spoon down into Jay’s half.
You know…now that I think about it, this feels suspiciously like eating grapefruit. Another grumble from his stomach distracts him, and he quickly scoops up a bite. Immediately, a refreshing flavor bursts through his mouth with a pleasantly sour taste. Juice rolls out of the side of his lips, and a second and third bite follow the first soon after. Whether due to his echoing need for actual food or the pure flavor of the fruit. He quickly devours his own half.
Setting the fruit aside with chagrin and remorse for not enjoying it more. Jay takes a moment to collect his thoughts and realizes a critical question to ask. “So, how would you advise me to choose my class? It feels like too big of a decision to make rashly.”
“Well,” He considers his following words carefully, “hmm…let me explain what we know of classes first.” He takes the cup next to him for another sip before jumping back in, “Each class has a path that it is fated to take. Depending on your own compatibility with a class, then there will be multiple branching paths that can be taken for a single class. Embedded in those paths is the notion.” He takes a breath and pauses a moment. “A notion is the essence of a particular path. For example, take the class of a [Warrior]. The main path taken is one of martial might. The notion of that class is to grow in skill with melee attacks to defeat your enemies.”
Huebald takes another break to allow that information to sink in, “Essentially, the notion describes what it takes to walk that path. The path itself is a general course of the class. Finally, the class is all the paths, even branched ones, given form and a name.”
“How does a branching path change the notion shown?”
“Let’s use the [Warrior] example. A branch path could be narrowing focus onto a single weapon to perfect like a general, [Spear Warrior] or [Sword Warrior]. Both are basic tiers of the level 25 advancement for the [Warrior] class when focused on that branch. A normal path would result in another generalized class like [Expert Warrior] or [Tempered Fighter].
“The notion for that branch class of warrior would be to train a weapon to mastery. Devote your martial expertise and experience to that specific weapon.” He finishes with an asking look towards Jay, waiting to see if that explanation is adequate enough to answer his question.
Without any signal to stop, he continues, “The path taken is what makes the class unique to you; it is the culmination of how you’ve lived up to that point. The System recognizes persistence and trials to raise your level, regardless of the class.” He stops to take a bite of his half of the fruit.
“You mentioned tiers to levels earlier. What did you mean by that?”
“It’s first important to note that most people do not reach level 25 before they are too aged to go further, let alone level 50. For those who get to this point, their class undergoes a qualitative change. For example, a traditional [Mage] base class can evolve into [Pyromancer] or a lesser [Fire Mage] at level 25. Another example could be a [Farmer] becoming a [Quick Growth Farmer].”
Nodding his head thoughtfully, Jay smiles, seeing Huebald pluck yet another flower from his shoulder. “Okay, so a mage can have his path branch to either [Pyromancer] or [Fire Mage], depending on their life. Let me guess, though, a [Quick Growth Farmer] grows plants faster?”
Flashing a quick grin, Huebald responds, “Name gives it away, eh? Yes, not only can they allow plants under their care to grow quicker, but they also possess some ability to input nutrients into the soil.”
Stuff is starting to make a bit more sense now. At least I’m learning a bit more about where I am. “I kind of see what you mean by all of this, but how do I know the path or notion of a class?”
“Hmm, from what I know, it should be as simple as focusing on the name in the class list. Once you do that, then you should be brought into a vision showing you what the class represents. Be careful to not accept any classes quite yet, though.”
Doing just that, Jay pulls up the class list. Instead of skimming, he decides to focus on [Slayer]. Immediately, he has a feeling of being dropped onto a battlefield flooded with rivers of blood. Jay can see a figure standing atop a hill of corpses, projecting an aura of triumph at defeating those who dared to stand in their path.
After what felt like hours but was actually just a few seconds. Jay wakes up in a cold sweat. Wha…what was that?
Looking toward Huebald with apprehension. “That…was slightly terrifying.”
“Oh? What class did you end up looking at, if you don’t mind?”
Jay blanches at the memory, “[Slayer].”
Realization and a touch of anguish appear in Huebald’s eyes. “I can see how that might be slightly overwhelming. Know that not all are that…abrasive.”
Only able to nod his head in acceptance, Jay looks toward some of the other classes available. [Harbinger] obviously sticks out, but he avoids that option for now.
Instead, Jay focuses on the [Worldly Mage] class. As he is drawn into another vision, something clicks into place, bringing a sense of wonder and adventure. He sees a figure traveling from place to place. Battling fearsome beasts and demons that step in their way with miraculous magic but never seeking a fight. It is evident that this path is made for those who want to wander. Never staying in one place to call home and to explore and see all they can.
Returning to his body, Jay’s mind feels much lighter. That was honestly nice. I guess I now have an actual option…or is that a good fit?
Shock can be heard in his voice, “Wow. I looked at [Worldy Mage], which brought a refreshing feeling. I could actually see myself choosing a class like that.”
“Good to hear you chose an option like that.” A smile blossoms on his face before morphing into a bright grin. “You do bring up an interesting class, though. The [Worldly…] variant of classes is a ‘path’ for those that never want to be tied down to one place. They’re destined to always move around, so there is a question you must ask. Who do you want to be, and what do you want to accomplish in this life?”
Now that is a good question. If I follow the path of my old life on Earth, I’d simply wish for a stable life without worries. Despite how little I know of this world, settling down somewhere sounds nice.
“I… I think I just want to live. No debts, no spectacular responsibility, just a place I can be in peace and call home.” Finishing with a smile at the thought, he can’t help but think about his time on Earth. I wonder what my family is doing now that I’ve been gone for days. Do they even know I’m gone? The smile fades, but before he goes too far down that path, Jay thinks of a class he saw while scrolling. [Teacher].
It is found lodged between [Healer] and [Weaver]. Strange that the list does not appear to be in any particular order. He stares at the option for a moment as Huebald says, “Hard task, that. I fear that is a goal only a few have the power to accomplish. Danger is around every corner on Eshor. Whether by a beast, demon, or even a fellow person. I truly wish you luck, my friend, but I’m afraid you might have to fight for that right.”
Disappointed at that answer, Jay doesn’t respond but allows himself to sink into the [Teacher] option, which brings a sense of the people. A figure traveling from place to place, enlightening the masses and spreading knowledge to all. Regardless of status or location. Images flash between the figure, teaching knowledge that is either mundane, magical, or anything in between.
A strange sense of depth resonates from this class; he is drawn into another vision before he has time to think. Seeing another side of a [Teacher], Jay sees a figure dedicated to bringing education to the oppressed. Paying no heed to the conflicts between some social classes. This branch fights a losing battle where they are but a few teaching too many. However, hope is never lost, and even a tiny amount of good is still good.
Before he can process this branch of [Teacher], Jay is drawn into another path. A figure stands before a few pupils. Talented students who the [Teacher] grants extra attention and focus towards. Bringing the few to great heights.
The vision fades as Jay sinks into contemplation. That was…interesting. It is almost as if each branch path is another layer to each class, but what was different between this and the other two, [Worldly Mage] and [Slayer]? There were no branch opportunities for those classes.
“So, maybe a strange question.” Huebald looks up from his own contemplations at the bottom of his cup. “I looked at the [Teacher] class, and the vision showed me some other options to the main path. However, I’m realizing now that the other two visions were much more straightforward in only showing a single path.”
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Joyfully, Huebald laughs and smiles, “Ah, I was hoping you’d pick up on that, especially with a class like [Teacher]. What you sensed is the compatibility a class has with you. Essentially, it is the System giving you hints at what would fit you the best. While those are some branching paths for [Teacher] that you saw, they are not the only ones limited to you in [Teacher]. You can still tread whatever path you’d like, but the System believes those are the best fits and has shown them as such.”
“Hmm.” How does it know if I have compatibility? Is it true what Huebald said? Is the System genuinely sentient? Even if it is, I don’t think there is much I could do…might as well keep looking through classes.
Materializing the class list again, Jay sees one he has blown past every time that seems interesting, the [Runecaster]. Drawn into the vision, an immediate ancient and mysterious aura radiates around him. Initially, the only thing to see is a figure on a simple-looking hill covered in grass. Holding a hand out, they create a symbol hanging in the air that bursts into flames. Another sign blinks into existence next to it which quickly condenses into water. Two other symbols quickly follow the first two. Bringing a chunk of earth and a whirling ball of visible wind.
The figure sets the four main magical elements to begin spinning in a tight circle around them. Seeming to sink into thought, it feels like days, then months, pass. Eventually, the figure flings its arm out, and the fire roars out in a wide cone to raze miles of forest. Turning slightly, the figure makes another gesture. This time sending a mile-high wave of water bulldozing all in its path.
The earth seems to overturn itself in another direction as the trees disappear beneath the newly rotated soil. Lastly, a cutting and strong tornado originate from the figure before following a path of wind blades slinging out in all directions. Looking like a lazy team of lumberjacks had their way with the forest.
Sinking back into thought, the vision looks like it stutters for a second. As if he was about to be drawn into another branching path of [Runecaster], the figure suddenly looked up, and the vision was locked. Jay’s face blanches back in his bed, but he still finds himself inside the vision. Okay, this doesn’t seem right. What the hell just happened?
Noticing movement in the corner of his eye, Jay sees the figure raising its arms in front of its body. A much more complicated symbol pops into existence between their hands. This symbol is colored with a spectacular golden-green glow from the crossing lines intersecting throughout. It appears to grow in power for a few moments as it solidifies but quickly bursts into a bright glow that shoots out in all directions around the figure.
The land of fire magic blooms with new growth from the ash. The land of water magic flourishes and explodes with life, along with the land of earth magic. The land of wind results in the tree stumps growing back to their full heights.
Mental shock rings throughout Jay’s mind as this incredible feat of magic is just performed. That is amazing. What even was that last symbol…or rune? It is [Runecaster], after all.
Finally, the vision releases its hold, and Jay is sweating in bed with a worried Huebald examining him. “I’m almost afraid to ask, but which one did you observe?”
Taking some deep breaths to settle his beating heart and raging thoughts. “[Runecaster], but it was…strange. It felt like I’d be drawn into another branching path, but then the main path almost seemed to lock me in to force me to witness another feat of magic.”
“That is definitely strange. Hmm, from the top of my head, I can’t remember any record of that happening in any of the books I’ve studied.” His eyes gaze at the floor in thought. “Allow me to search for some record of this phenomenon before you make a choice if that’s okay?” Huebald looks in askance toward Jay.
“Huh? Oh, yeah, for sure. I’m not in any rush. I’ll keep perusing through some options.” Still distracted from the vision, Jay barely formulates a response. Compared to [Teacher], that was a lot. To be honest with myself, though, as much as I’d like to choose [Teacher], is it reasonable in my situation? I know nothing about this world or how to live in it. [Teacher] didn’t even seem to bring an ability to defend oneself with it, and if what Huebald said was true…then danger or conflict seems inevitable.
Looking back at the class list, Jay chooses [Mage] to see the difference between that and the [Worldly Mage] option. The vision shows a figure debating with others over magical theories before flashing to that figure sitting alone, pouring over books. In another flash, the figure is now using spells, but slowly and with the intent to understand all intricacies. Taking time between each casting, the magic becomes visibly more powerful before reaching a bottleneck. The scene flashes back to the debate, then study before the figure is again on the training field. Growing the spell to further power.
Huh, instead of using magic to travel the world and adventure like [Worldly Mage]. The typical [Mage] class is based on patience and study to unlock wondrous and miraculous magics. The vision repeats itself a few times with the theme of growing the spell before he is again thrown out of it.
Jay is about to jump back in to examine the class list, but a cough from Huebald distracts him. Raising his head to meet Huebald’s eyes, Jay notices an awkward look as he says, “I’m unfortunately unable to stay any longer. I am a touch busy with our ongoing conflicts and being the Head Mage. Feel free to discuss this with Bavo or Marigold if you have any questions, but I’ll be back to discuss further as soon as I can.”
“Of course you’re busy! I’m sorry for taking up so much of your time, but I’d like to say I truly appreciate your help. I’m eager to speak with you again.” Brushing off his worries about being alone again, Jay nods and smiles in understanding.
With a grateful look and a nod back, Huebald stands up and starts for the door. Stopping before he entirely walks out, he turns slightly, “Fully think about what classes are real options. Again, and sorry to be redundant, this is a choice that will have real consequences in your future.” Giving Jay one more look, he leaves without waiting for another word.
Jay looks around the room he has called home for the last few days and sinks into thought. Well, I can’t really blame him for leaving. I technically just showed up unannounced, so I shouldn’t be surprised that they have other stuff going on. I can just take the time to look through more classes.
He spends much of the afternoon into the night looking through the various classes available. Before falling asleep for the night, he summarizes some of his discoveries mentally but cannot help remark on how exhausted he feels. Does looking at classes make me more tired? I swear, toward the end, it felt like it took longer for each vision to activate. Maybe some kind of mental energy? Bah, too tired to think.
Jay looks over the classes he viewed and makes a mental list of them.
[Champion] felt unreasonably glorious. To quite literally be a champion of the people or a cause. Being a symbol and figurehead. Too gaudy for my tastes.
[Defender] brought a sense of protection of others above all else. An immovable wall between danger and allies. Nice, but I’ll be honest. Being hit all day does not sound enjoyable.
He could only look at [Alchemist] before he became too tired to view another vision. From what he gathered, the class was based around miraculous elixirs, potions, or pills for any situation possible. Possibilities were endless. Definitely an option, but it seems too difficult to advance with. Constantly needing more materials before moving on.
Huh, now that I’m thinking about it. None of those classes seemed to have compatibility with me. I’d think [Alchemist] would have some potential with my status as a science teacher on Earth. Strange.
Yawning and beginning to drift off, Jay mentally prods another class and notices it no longer activating the vision. Stranger, and stranger. I’ll ask Bavo or Huebald about it tomorrow.
He can’t help but laugh a bit with another thought. At least now I’m choosing to sleep instead of passing out in front of my hosts. Thankfully, it is starting to feel like I am finding my place in this world, or at least it is no longer as jarring to think about.
Life might not be so bad in this world after all…heh, famous last words.
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Waking up the following day proved much more relaxing than previously. Once again, finding himself looking at the patterned ceiling above him. The only thought Jay had that could make it better would be coffee. I don’t care what anyone says; tea is excellent, and I love it. But the sense of bliss that accompanies a fresh cup of coffee in the morning is unrivaled. For me, it always brought this slight feeling of calm beginning each day.
He can’t help but remark on how much healthier he feels compared to the last couple of days. Nearly no aches or pains, just some reminiscent sensations. Man, with this kind of medical care on Earth. Cancer would be a thing of the past…or would it? That’s not a bad question to ask Bavo. How far does Eshor’s healing magic extend?...Questions, questions.
Voices approach in the hallway, drawing him away from his reflections. He’s quickly able to identify Bavo’s cheerful voice and Marigold’s babbling. Instead of passing by, Jay hears the click of his door, and both of them enter.
His eyebrows shoot up his forehead as he notices their clothing. Bavo is in a crisp greyish-white robe with a beautiful golden pattern stitched throughout. While Marigold contrasts him with a matching golden robe with a white design. Did something happen? I’m pretty sure they weren’t matching the last I saw them.
Before Jay can open his mouth, Bavo screams, “Friend Jay! Huebald told me he finally introduced himself to you! Inconsiderate old bat.” Jay and Marigold share a look as Jay thinks, didn’t you also not ask for my name?
He barrels on without taking heed of the other two, “But today is a joyous day; our dear Marigold here has reached the spectacular level of 25 last night. After a challenging operation on a guardsman, she earned the class upgrade and got…” Bavo wildly indicates for Marigold to take over.
Rolling her eyes at Bavo in exasperation, “Well, normally, one does not talk of class specifics with others due to revealing weaknesses and such.” Throwing a glare at her master before quickly flashing a smile at Jay, “But I guess considering who you are and the choice you have to make, it’s fair to tell you.”
A cutely serious look appears on her face, “Although! You have to swear to never, ever, tell anyone of what you hear.”
Jay glances at Bavo, holding in a laugh as Marigold makes her declaration. However, he notices Bavo give him a slight nod. So, as Marigold twitches slightly at Bavo’s provocations, summoning a serious look, “Of course, I will keep your class a secret. I value the trust that you’ve put in me.”
She settles down and appears very satisfied with herself, “Well then, my base class was initially just a base [Healer] due to my apprenticing under Master Bavo for so long. With his advice, I also refused all other classes offered to me. Deciding to devote myself only to the single class.”
Jay holds up a hand to forestall the coming rant, “Wait, so you can deny classes the System offers?”
Quickly bobbing her head as Bavo allows her the spotlight, “Yes, you can deny a class.” She says this with all the obviousness one would expect from an adult asking how to eat. “When the System decides you have committed enough to a class's path, you will be offered the choice to take that class. If you decide the notion and path do not fit your own, you can deny it.”
Bavo is nodding along to her explanation and decides to cut in here as Marigold’s face screws up a little. “Most people pick classes that suit their needs at that moment. This can, however, hinder many in their progress to higher levels. There is evidence that those who branch out their path to such an extent have lower overall levels than those who narrow down their desires.”
Nodding his head, Jay thinks for a moment. Okay, so you have some freedom in the path you walk. The System doesn’t force anyone into something they don’t want…or does it? [Runecaster] definitely took some control away from me as it forced me to view that single path. Tentatively and with much hesitation, Jay asks, “Can…can someone be forced into a class?”
Just like that, it felt as if the joyful attitude was ripped out of the room. An awkward atmosphere arises, “Uhm…you don’t have to answer. It was only a passing thought. Sorry.”
Without the usual mirth, Bavo slowly shakes his head, “It is of no fault of your own that you ask. It is simply a difficult subject to think about or discuss. But you deserve to know as a newcomer to this world.” He takes a deep breath to gather himself. “The power you speak of is possessed by the Vrax. Terrible and horrendous beings who take advantage of all other life with their vicious contracts. Through misleading language and lording their strength over those weaker. They can force beings into the needed class and manipulate their loyalties with magically binding contracts.
“In years long past, they were a plague on the world, but they learned and adapted. Creating allies and gathering like-minded individuals in their cities. They hold a firm position in the Great World Powers but now maintain at least an illusion of civility.”
Releasing a breath, Jay can only sit back in thought as yet another existential threat is brought to his attention. So…slavery exists here. Note to self, do not involve myself with these Vrax.
“Is there any way to avoid being taken advantage of other than avoiding them at all costs?”
“The avoiding option is probably your best bet. They’re easily recognizable. A ghostly head with a horrendous gaping mouth set into their chests. They stand at around 3 meters tall usually. Their culture is centered around contract magic, and they rarely leave their nation's boundaries, so it is rare to see one. However, keep in mind they’ve attracted those from all species interested in their contract magic. Their influence is much greater than it seems”
“I feel the need to ask, but why didn’t everyone, I don’t know, band together to defeat this enslaving nation?” Obviously, I know it isn’t that simple or easy, but I must at least ask and understand.
“Unfortunately, they proved too difficult to wipe out completely. The Slavocracy of Krall is as bold as the name would suggest. They possessed several contracts that some of their peers were cautious about breaking, and they held them until they were driven back to their current borders before threatening the contracts.
Deciding to cut in to break this dour mood, Marigold jumps in to pull the attention to her. “Soooo, anyways, back onto the reason for ‘celebration’!” She throws a look at both Jay and Bavo. “The class I initially chose was [Healer]. Thankfully, through Master Bavo’s tutelage and being in a border village, I quickly rose to the first bottleneck level. I had a few choices, but ultimately I chose [Tempered Healer]. It’s one of the more well-established paths before the level 50 bottleneck.”
Once again, raising a hand to forestall the coming onslaught of words, “Class pathways can be that predictable?”
For once, Marigold looks toward Bavo to explain. He begins to tap his foot like he hears a song only he can experience. Bavo does not seem to notice us as he starts to speak, “Yes, some classes are well documented, and the methods used to gain them are known to many. This is only helpful for the level 25 bottleneck, though. At level 50, the System has a much more personal effect on the classes offered. They become much more specific and unique to the person, regardless of what that path may be up to that point.” He says that last part with a grudging and annoyed voice.
Alright, so there is no loving and morally all-powerful System. From what I’ve heard, all-powerful might be a fair descriptor, but it seems aggressively fair. Allowing any type of abilities without care for their use in the world. Powers that can be used for either significant effect or terrible consequences.
Bavo moves in Jay’s direction and pulls him out of his musings, “Not to get distracted from the true matter at hand. Let’s see if you’re fit enough to squeeze some work out of you…or I mean, let’s see how well you’re healing up.” He presents a totally innocent look that is definitely not up to something.
Rolling his eyes, Jay has a thought and decides to have some fun with him, “I’m definitely feeling better. Much healthier this morning. Definitely wouldn’t mind another of those grey healing bumps of yours. In fact, it almost feels like I…need it.” A few moments pass as I stare at Bavo with a straight face while Marigold stands there stunned.
Not paying her mind, Bavo simply stares back at Jay blankly before narrowing his eyes, “You’re lying.”
“Am I? Maybe I’m just itching for another fix.”
Bavo again stares blankly at him while Jay struggles to keep a neutral look and returns the stare.
This goes on for some time before Bavo speaks up again. “In that case, we will have to put you into rehabilitation.” He takes a short breath and puts on a pitiable face. “Unfortunately for you, this means an excruciating amount of pain. Honestly, we might just want to start now in case it has gone too far already.”
Without another word, he begins to reach out while Jay panics. He can hold it together for only a moment while the hand approaches, but Jay snaps just before it reaches him, “Okay! Okay! Fine! You win. I’m not addicted or anything. I was just trying to mess with you, dammit!”
Bavo hesitates for a moment before continuing to reach out. “Well, just in case, we should still do the rehabilitation. Wouldn’t want this to go unnoticed or anything.”
Panic floods through him as the hand closes in, quickly splaying his hands out in front of him, “Wait, wait, wait, no need for that here. No, means no.”
The hand keeps growing closer. Well, I guess that’s it. Went too far…
Jay clenches his fists and shuts his eyes in preparation for what is coming…moments pass.
More time goes by. I feel like it should have happened by now.
He cracks an eye open and sees a hand directly in front of his face. Wha…what? Still attempting to understand what’s happening. Bavo suddenly moves again and bops him on the nose. What the hell!?
“You’re still a couple decades too young to try and pull one over on me, friend Jay.” An incredibly annoying satisfied smile appears on his face.
Jay’s jaw drops, and he stares at Bavo with an empty look, “I…ah…” Mouth open like a gaping fish, Jay, is stunned into silence.
Marigold’s cackling laugh draws him out of his shock. To save Jay from some embarrassment, Bavo cuts in again, “Alright, let’s spare him some trouble, Marigold. Why don’t you go ahead and give him a check-up for me?”
She smothers her laugh and steps forward to reach out to Jay. “May I?”
Still slightly awkward, “Uh, sure…yeah, of course.” Laying a hand on his chest, all his other thoughts are swept away. A golden light originates from her hand in strict contrast to Bavo’s greyish light. Spreading out from his chest, it eventually covers every part of his body and brings a sensation, unlike Bavo’s. A soft warmth like laying next to a fireplace envelopes his remaining aches and pains. Soothing them into nothing.
After a few moments, Jay returns to himself and sees a sheen of sweat on Marigold’s forehead. She’s also breathing heavily as Bavo asks, “So, Marigold, What did you see from our friend here? Can we put him to work?” He finishes with another irritating smirk.
“He looked okay overall. Still some smaller lingering issues, but my [Slow Regeneration] should help clear them up over the next couple of hours.” She gives a smile in Jay’s direction. “Definitely is good to start helping out around the village instead of freeloading.” Betrayal!
Bavo’s smirk morphs into a delightful smile, and he pats Jay on the shoulder. “Just what I was hoping! Good news, and a fantastic job too, Marigold. Now that you’ve been cleared, we’ll go ahead and get you on your feet today. Let you see where you’ve been staying for the past few days. Maybe you’ll even have the chance to see Marigold’s celebration!” He makes an indicating gesture over toward a dresser set to the side of the room. “You can find some options that should fit you inside that dresser.”
Still reeling from the warmth spread across him, Jay responds with a smile, “Thank you both for all your help. Sincerely. I’d be happy to celebrate this occasion with you all.”
Bavo’s smile grows wider while Marigold squeaks out excitedly at another potential attendee. “Yes! I can give you a tour of the village too. We can wait…er” Her mood plummets as she looks toward her master. “Uhm, unless Master Bavo needs me to help him around the hall.”
She gives her master a pleading look, and Jay can see him expertly covering up a smile, “Reneging on your work already with the new class evolution, eh? Galavanting off at the first chance you get.” He raises an eyebrow with a displeased look.
Marigold only blankly stares at him for a few moments before glancing at Jay, who is still attempting to keep his face neutral at Bavo’s new ploy. She narrows her eyes in suspicion and looks back at her master. “Oh, alright. With my quick rise, I might as well take over for you due to your advancing age, anyway. Wouldn’t want you to keel over in the midst of healing a patient.” She ends with a challenging appearance.
Seems like I have much to learn from even the master's apprentice. Jay finds himself enjoying the floundering Bavo and adds fuel to the fire. “That definitely does not sound pleasant. You know? I believe I’m even seeing some grey hairs around your ears. Maybe she is right, and it is time for you to retire after all.” He conceals a sly wink toward Marigold and takes some delight in backstabbing Bavo. Just a little payback from earlier.
Bavo stills for a moment in shock from his ploy being turned back around on him. “Bah!” Screwing his face up in frustration. “Turning a perfectly good joke into an attack on this poor old man. A shame to see the young disrespect their elders like so.” Wistfully, he continues, “Woe is me with this hateful act from children.”
Exasperated, Marigold only says, “Really.” Whoaa, one-word sentence from Marigold?
He waves her off and profoundly sighs, “Fine, fine. You wound me, my dear Marigold. I will handle all the patients myself and work these bones weary.”
Another eye roll, “You’ve done it alone for years before I came to you, and you were even a battle healer before coming here. I’m sure you’ll manage.” Bavo simply huffs and begins to speak, but Marigold cuts him off. “Now, now, old man.” Patting him on the back and causing her master to splutter even more. “Let’s leave Jay to himself to prepare for our exciting day.”
Smiling at Jay, she takes her master by the arm as he begins to protest Marigold’s constant use of the phrase ‘old man’ and how disrespectful that is. He seems to forget his own use of the words, but moments ago.
As they reach the door, Jay calls out. “Thank you both again for all your help.” They briefly stop and turn around. He begins to rise from bed with aching muscles from days of disuse protesting movement. Jay slowly pushes himself to sit up before he swings his legs off the edge.
Tentatively touching his foot onto the floor, Jay tests his weight. With some stability established, he plants his other foot and works his way up to a standing position. Jay loses his balance for a second, like a newborn foal struggling to stand.
He steadies himself and turns to an amused Bavo and a blushing Marigold. Blushing? What’s this about?
Ridding himself of these thoughts, Jay decides to push onwards. He bows at the waist to show his thanks, “Truly, thank you both and this whole village. Nursing me back to health and providing sound advice…I could not have asked for anything more after all you’ve done”
Jay stands back up only to see Bavo holding in a hysterical laugh and Marigold averting her eyes in every direction but his own. He freezes in thought for a moment, don’t tell me…
Slowly looking down and seeing bare legs, Jay realizes only some open-faced medical gown is on his body. Quickly flushing the same shade as Marigold, he flings himself onto the bed and under the covers.
Struggling for a response, he barely peaks out over his blanket. Bavo decides to ‘save’ him again, “Well, my friend, I think I can say that we are much closer now than before.” He turns around while gesturing to Marigold to follow. “Come now, let’s leave Jay to get ready.”
Well, that went well. Barking out a laugh at that thought, Jay goes through the process of standing up again. Taking the first few steps slowly, Jay hears the door bang open and Huebald barge in. “Jay! My friend…Ah!” Flinging his hand to shield his eyes, he slowly backs out of the room. “Sorry, sorry. I’ll give you some privacy. I’ll wait on you.”
Huebald snaps the door shut with an audible sound and leaves Jay alone again. Okay, so I’ve now flashed three separate people in one day. Let’s try not to make a habit of this… He can only bow his head with another laugh and continue towards the dresser.
----------------------------------------
Zenon looks around the ballroom and cannot help but to feel slightly awed and disturbed by the duplicitous nobles of this insufferable nation. The Kingdom of Waves. Since arriving on this world with the other ‘Travelers,’ it has been a constant and incessant fawning like we are a prize to be coveted.
I swear, out of the other 10 people who dropped in with me from the cafe, only I can see what this truly is…servitude. It’s the only thing that makes sense. Why save and house a group of people who, from what they said, can grow in great power quickly.
I’m just glad that I trusted my instincts over their poor advice. Zenon looks around the room and continues to nod along to the droning of Lady Lezi Farflower from Esharia. A city of music or something.
Zenon can only thank his gut for choosing [Spymaster] to wade through this chaos. The noble bastards did not even tell us how much a class can affect Travelers. Hell, we weren’t even told directly that the human Kingdoms were at war.
To distract himself from this farce, he looks at his status.
Status
Name:
Zenon Rajski
Class:
Spymaster
Mana Well:
Mid-tier
Vim Well:
Low-tier
Abilities
Blend to Shadow
Meld to the shadows.
Lesser Dexterity
Coordination is slightly improved
Lesser Agility
Movement speed is slightly improved
Mana Well
Mana well capacity is expanded
Spying Spectres
Summon a variety of near-invisible small animals to observe surroundings
Split Consciousness
Divide the mind to focus on multiple tasks at once
Obfuscate Status
Present a falsified limited status to all scrutiny
Examining his status, Zenon remembers a question that Chad the [Champion] had when we first were brought here.
……….
In a training ground outside of Castle Drell, one of the Dukes in the Kingdom of Water. Upon arriving at the Capital after days of riding, the Queen immediately demanded they are sequestered for training by one of their high-ranking nobles and General.
The General, Duke Drell, is standing in front of the Travelers, who are arranged in a disorganized mass. Raising a hand to quiet the chaotic noise, “We know some of you have already chosen classes.” Granting a smile towards Chad. A 20-something college student with blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a disarming smile. Apparently, he was among the first to choose a class among our illustrious group of bedraggled people.
Immediately upon accessing the class list, he decided [Champion] without hesitation. Duke Drell draws Zenon out of his contemplations. “...any help will be provided to assist the advance in level. We have several experts from various Houses to assist those who have waited to choose a class.”
Chad’s hand shoots up in the air, and without waiting for Duke Drell to acknowledge, he asks, “I’ve been going through my status, and it all looks cool. But where is my health gauge? This isn’t like any of the games I’ve played back home.”
Darkly laughing, the Duke fixes Chad with a stern glare, “This is no game. Health? Ridiculous. Take an arrow to the head, dead. Sword to the gut, dead in minutes. Blood loss, dead. If an infection isn’t seen? Dead.”
He grows taller as a prideful and arrogant aura is projected, and as though teaching adults how to dress, he says, “Some abilities can allow you to toughen your skin and strengthen your bones. However, even with these abilities, decapitation is still the same result. Death.”
“Now you also must remember…”
……
Zenon lets the memory fade away but cannot help but remark on the usefulness of [Split Conciousness]. He can zone out, listen to other conversations around him, and still have some mental energy to spare to keep a dull conversation with random nobles.
Zenon shivers a bit, rubbing his forehead, thinking about his first test with the ability. Apparently, the senses of 10 different specters all at once can be slightly overwhelming.
Further practice with this ability showed him that it taxes some types of mental energy not shown on the status sheet. Depending on the task, I can split my mind three ways without issue.
After a few days of playing with the specters, Zenon also quickly realized he could shut down certain senses to reduce the information transmitted. Before fully contemplating the extent of his abilities, a nearby conversation catches his attention.
He devotes two-thirds of his thought process toward the two talking, but he continues to appear talking to Lady Farflower. Once he notices the due who are gossiping, Zenon’s nerves begin to rise in anticipation. Is this it?
One of them is a Marquis visiting from the Kingdom of Wind, and the other is an Earl from the Kingdom of Earth. Bacrom Dotsk and Marvorva Gondosta, respectively.
Focusing on the conversation, he forces that part of his consciousness to shut out all sound but their discussion. He hears the end of Earl Gondosta’s question, “...think of the Travelers?” Ears perking up at that mention, he thanks his ability to allow him to blend in.
Looking slightly flush from the wine, Marquis Dotsk leans over to whisper with a predatory grin, “Hah, worthless can barely describe them…but a few deserve mention. The [Champion] for one.”
Waving him off, Earl Gondosta laughs in rebuke, “The fool didn’t even realize a class like that will practically attach him to us by the hip due to the support it requires to advance. But the others…” A questioning look appears on his face.
Suspiciously looking around the room for any wandering eyes or observers, the Marquis takes a deep pull of wine before leaning closer to say in a barely audible voice. “No need to worry over the others. We will make sure they are…contracted…appropriately.”
The Earl’s eyebrows practically touch the ceiling in shock, “You mean-”
Interrupting him, the Marquis leans back, “Yes, and speak no more of it.” Seeming to sober up, Marquis Dotsk glances in Zenon’s direction with narrowed eyes. “This is not the time.”
A cold sweat breaks out on his forehead and back. Did….does he know I was listening? Resolve hardening; I need to get out of this place.