An Image appeared in front of Jack of a white human male. The man was average in every way, medium height, medium build etc. Below the image was a description.

[Humans are among the most numerous races in The Realm. They have established numerous kingdoms and empires over the millennia. They are extremely versatile and adaptable, able to fill almost any role required of them. Humans start out with a 10 in every base Physical stat and 5 in every base Mental stat. They receive no automatic bonuses upon levelling up. However, they do get 5 free Stat with every new level. This allows them more freedom of choice at the cost of less overall Stats. Racial Abilities: Keen Mind, Fruitful]

Jack focused on the Abilities and a description for each one appeared.

[Keen Mind: Humans can recall details with remarkable clarity, allowing them to remember faces, places, and information with exceptional accuracy. This ability makes them quick learners and adept at adapting to new environments.]

[Fruitful: Humans possess a natural affinity for reproduction and growth. This racial ability increases their chances of successful pregnancies and enhances the overall fertility of their communities. It also contributes to a slightly faster rate of population growth compared to other races.]

Jack pondered the information, weighing the benefits of the human race. Versatility and adaptability seemed like valuable traits in a world filled with unknown challenges. However, the lack of automatic bonuses upon leveling up made him consider other options. This was aside from the fact that he had been human his whole life and found the option to change that… enticing to say the least.

Skala observed Jack's contemplation and interjected, " Just so you know, the human races base stats represent how powerful you were in your previous life as an average human in his mid-20’s. There are, of course, other races to choose from. Each has its own strengths, weaknesses, and unique abilities. Some may align better with specific Classes or Professions. Take your time and choose wisely. I have given you a large selection to choose from".

Jack shook his head and dismissed the human option. With that, the image in front of him transformed into a new one. This time, it depicted a lithe figure with pointed ears and a graceful demeanor wearing a leafy green cloak and carrying a bow.

[Forest Elf: Forest Elves are an ancient and enigmatic race known for their longevity, agility, and connection to nature. They have a natural affinity for magic and are renowned for their skill in archery. Upon leveling Forest Elves receive 2 free Stat points as well as a +2 bonus to Dexterity and Intelligence. Racial Abilities: Keen Senses, Elven Grace]

[Keen Senses: Forest Elves possess a profound attunement to the natural world, particularly the forests that are integral to their heritage. Their keen eyesight and excellent hearing allow them to navigate through dense canopies and perceive subtle movements amidst the foliage. In dimly lit or shadowed woodland environments, elves excel at spotting concealed creatures or potential threats.]

[Elven Grace: Characterized by an innate elegance and agility, elves move with a grace that seems almost otherworldly. This racial ability enhances their overall coordination and nimbleness, making them proficient in activities that demand finesse. Whether traversing difficult terrain, engaging in acrobatics, or executing precise movements in combat, elves navigate with a fluidity that sets them apart. Elven Grace not only contributes to their physical prowess but also aids in avoiding obstacles and attacks with a finesse unmatched by other races.]

Jack considered this elven race and its bonuses. Increased agility and intelligence would likely make him more proficient in ranged combat and magical endeavors. The racial abilities hinted at heightened perception and a grace that could prove advantageous in various situations.

And yet he couldn’t help feeling that this race was not quite what he was looking for. The elf looked too fragile to him. He wanted something that could both give and take a punch.

After dismissing the elf, he asked Skala “Can you show me some races that are physically strong and tough”. Skala laughed “Physical prowess will only take you so far in your new life Jack. But if that’s what you truly want.” He snapped his fingers and three new images appeared. The first was of a short but muscular looking figure with greyish skin and a mulish expression to his face. Jack focused on him.

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[Stonehide Dwarf: Stonehide Dwarves are a sturdy and resilient race known for their exceptional strength, craftsmanship, and resilience. They excel in various physical activities and are renowned for their proficiency in mining, blacksmithing and brawling. Upon leveling, Dwarves receive 2 free Stat points, as well as a +2 bonus to Strength and Constitution. Racial Abilities: Stoneform, Dwarven Resilience]

[Stoneform: Stonehide Dwarves have the unique Ability to temporarily transform their skin into a stone-like substance once per day, granting them increased resistance to physical damage. In this state, they become tougher and more resistant to harm, making them formidable opponents in battle. The Stoneform ability is particularly effective against slashing attacks.]

[Dwarven Resilience: Dwarves possess a natural resistance to toxins and poisons, a trait that has evolved over generations spent in subterranean environments. This racial ability enhances their ability to withstand harmful substances, making them less susceptible to the effects of poisons and diseases. Dwarven Resilience also contributes to their overall durability, allowing them to endure harsh conditions and recover more quickly from injuries.]

Jack studied the information presented about the dwarven race. The increased strength and constitution, coupled with natural resistance to toxins, appealed to his desire for a physically robust character. The Stoneform ability, in particular, seemed like a valuable defensive tool. He also noted that it was the only racial ability he had seen so far that was active rather than passive. Stonehide Dwarf was a definite contender, but he wanted to see what other options were available.

Jack continued to examine the images Skala had presented. The second image depicted a towering figure with scales covering its body, a long tail swaying behind it, and eyes that glowed with intense intelligence.

[Drakeling: Drakelings are descendants of ancient dragons, possessing dragon-like features and a natural affinity for magic. They are known for their strength, resilience, and powerful breath attacks. Upon leveling, Drakelings receive 2 free Stat points, as well as a +2 bonus to Strength and Intelligence. Racial Abilities: Draconic Scales, Breath Weapon]

[Draconic Scales: The scales covering a Drakelings body provide natural armor, increasing their resistance to both physical and magical attacks. This racial ability enhances their overall durability, making them formidable in various combat situations. The Draconic Scales are particularly effective against slashing and piercing attacks.]

[Breath Weapon: Once per day, Drakelings can unleash a breath attack based on the elemental affinity of their draconic lineage. This ability allows them to release a powerful blast of fire, ice, lightning, or other elements, depending on their ancestry. The Breath Weapon is a potent offensive tool that can turn the tide of battle when used strategically.]

Jack considered the Drakeling race, fascinated by the idea of having dragon-like features and the potential for a powerful breath attack. The combination of strength and intelligence was appealing, and the Draconic Scales and Breath Weapon seemed like versatile abilities that could be advantageous in various situations. However, he didn’t want to make a decision before examining his last option.

Focusing on the third form, Jack saw a savage-looking humanoid. Standing at a few inches over 6 feet the figure only had two features that distinguished it from the human. The first was its eyes which were slit like a cats and a deep tawny golden color. They seemed to stare at him in a bold, challenging manner. The second thing was the figures teeth. While far from the grotesque knife factory in Skalas mouth, the figures canines were long- far longer than any humans should be. This being was obviously a meat eater. Jack read the description.

[Direborn: Direborn are beings born from the essence of primal forces, possessing a robust and fearsome physique. They excel in physical combat and are known for their resilience in harsh environments. They are consummate hunters who revel in the thrill of hunting, fighting and bringing down their prey. Upon leveling, Direborn receive 2 free Stat points, as well as a +2 bonus to Strength and Agility. Racial Abilities: One with the Elements, Savage Roar]

[One with the Elements: Direborn have an innate connection to the Elements of magic They are far more likely to awaken attunements than most other races.]

[Savage Roar: Once per day, the Direborn can unleash a powerful roar infused with primal energy. This Ability has a stunning effect on opponents, causing them to be temporarily still for three seconds. Savage Roar is not only a formidable offensive tool but also serves as a means of intimidation, potentially turning the tide of a battle in the Direborn's favor.]

“Hey Skala” Jack called over his shoulder as he studied the Direborn “What are attunements?”. “Something that can give you a significant advantage if you have the wit to utilize it” Skala replied archly “More than that I cannot say without violating certain…agreements, shall we say”. So Skala thinks it could be good but no specifics. Great.

Jack pondered his options. He wanted something strong but the idea of shrinking down to the dwarfs height didn’t appeal to him. Also, he didn’t particularly care for mining or smithing. That left the Drakeling or the Direborn.

Both had their advantages and Jack didn’t see enough of a difference between them to make a choice based on that. Instead, he closed his eyes and tried to really feel which choice called to him. After several moments of deep thought, he opened his eyes. “I’ve made my decision”.