CHANGES

  “What’s wrong with him?” Milly sobs.

  Bree, hugging the crying girl, attempts to soothe her, “Rhys is the best in the Empire, he is in excellent hands.”

  “I don't believe he's in danger. He seems in prefect health. Nothing requires healing. I am using my Essence Sight. He is being flooded with Physique Essence. I have been observing you all as you use your powers to catalog what I see. It is causing a significant transformation within him. I can barely keep track of it all. Wait, that is not entirely correct. Rather than making changes, the focus is on enhancing and improving efficiency. Sorry, this is like trying to explain color to a blind person, that has never had sight. Think of it like a carpenter smoothing out a board, kind of. You can see the wood grain in the rough, but as the sanding and planning progress, the grain gets more clear.”

  Bree asks, “Any idea of how long this will take?”

  “No, sorry.”

  “Okay how about all of you lay down and get some sleep. Rhys will watch over Mick and I will keep watch.”

  “I will cast a sleep spell, so you all get some rest. I will wake everybody when Mick recovers.” Rhys says to the young adventuring group. “Observing Tanner after his class choice, I believe Mick's choice exposed him to something for which he was not prepared. I think he was just overwhelmed by the Essences flooding into him, so he passed out.”

  Milly, looking puzzled, asks, “I have a question. Why didn’t Tanner pass out?”

  Rhys answers, “This is all speculation, but he has been using Arcane all along. I believe this allowed him to become accustomed to it. It seems exposing everyone to Origin Essence has allowed you all to be more receptive to your Attuned Essences you have Affinities with. I would not be surprised if the rest of you get similar results. We just need to take things slower than we planned for, just in case.”

  “Should Mick and I Tier up, then let each of the others get a Class and Tier individually? Just in case more unexpected events like this happen?” Tanner asks.

  “Get some sleep, Rhys and I will talk things over and we can all form a plan in the morning.” Bree answers him. “Now all of you get into your bedrolls, trust me you want to be comfortable before he casts his sleep spell.”

  “What do you think, Bree?” Rhys asks quietly after casting the Sleep spell.

  “Mick seems to have gotten Advanced Class choices that their Tier Zero bodies are not ready for. I think we need to wait for Mick to wake up. We may come to a better decision after we look at him awake.”

  Rhys says, “That kid is very smart isn’t he?”

  “Tanner? Yes he is. I don’t think any of us had that kind of awareness when we were his age. His behavior so far, it’s like he was born for this stuff. This party of his will become something special.”

  “Oh? More Divination?”

  “Yes, I am glad Claire’s found a life partner in him. They both had a shock as far as their love life goes, but things will work out fine.”

  “More far seeing? how does Connie fit in?”

  “That was the first thing I saw about them, the three together. Tanner would have died if he stayed in Volks Harbor. I saw many lives before him, Tanner joining the guard in another city making changes. The changes he would make would change the Guard structure for the entire Empire. I did not see what he would do, just the broad strokes. If he went the Delving path. Him and Samantha together, as lovers as friends one or both dying. Destroying the Delvers Guild. When I saw him and Claire together, everything changed. I saw Him and Claire form a duo and Delve and become great. I saw him form a party without Claire. They stayed together somehow and both became great. I witnessed them form a party without Jackson. I saw it ultimately lead to their deaths. Then I saw Jackson. That changed every future I looked at. Then when I looked at the entire party. Rhys, these kids will shake everything we think we know about the World. The empire will become much broader and much stronger. I don’t know how, but they will make the change that is coming smoother. I need to stress, they are not essential. The change will come and we will come out the other side fine. I see Eunice tied closely with Tanner, friends, lovers it is very jumbled, I can not see enough there. We, the Imps, need to protect them, and mentor them. No matter what.”

  “Well that got deep and serious fast.” Rhys says, smiling at the sleeping group. “Although Eunice and Tanner as lovers is disturbing. Eunice’s limitations make that outcome concerning to me. I think you may have noticed the rest of us are already on board with that plan.”

  Bree, also smiling at the sleeping decuplet, says. “Good we may need to take them out of school.”

  “That is against both Church and Imperial Law. They need a minium of two years education to get an imperial certification, no matter what. There is no way in hell Tanner will go for a guild short cut, he is too aware of the limitations. I do not see him accepting anything like that for those he cares for. How do we get around that?”

  “We set up a judicature assembly, Harold and I represent the Imperial side, Eunice, and Bran for the Church.”

  Rhys, poking holes in her plan, speaks up. “I can see some issues with that. Accusations of Nepotism for one. I think a full court would be much better.”

  “Who?” Bree asks. “If I have the rest of you on the panel, it will be even worse.”

  “How about the dean? I think she will be reliable. I know a couple of other academics that would be suitable and I am sure Eunice knows a few that would be acceptable.”

  Bree, deep in contemplation. “So if a full panel of ten can agree, there should be no backlash. We may have to consider artifacts of truth.”

  Rhys cautions. “I think if You, Harold and Eunice are on the court panel there may be some backlash. I would use Edward, Bran, and two higher ranked Adventurers Guild members. I think the other members would all take that very badly if their Honor is questioned.”

  “Point, the people you have in mind are all a few levels from Ascension.”

  “So you ignored my question.”

  “Claire, Tanner, and Connie are the most probable outcome. They are well on the way into a relationship. Even with the Tanner, Eunice thing, that leads me to conclude that line is not what it appears to be.” She confirms.

  Just before morning, Mick wakes up. “How are you feeling?” Rhys asks him, while intently looking Mick over.

  “I feel really strong, and weak simultaneously. I felt strange after making the class choice then nothing. What happened?”

  Bree replies. “You passed out. What did you feel like before passing out?”

  “I felt like things were crawling all over me and inside me. Then nothing.”

  “Hmm. It sounds like the Essences you needed for your class were changing you to adapt to it. That is not something that happens at the lower Tiers. It usually happens gradually over time for the advanced classes. This tells me you were offered an advanced Class. You guys are so screwed up.” Rhys sighs. “I am waking everybody up.”

  “Don’t mind him, he doesn’t like not having the answers.” Bree whispers in an overly loud tone. Mick laughs.

  “Decision time folks,” Rhys announces. “Tanner made an excellent suggestion last night.”

  Bree interjects. “It will allow us to monitor each of you more closely and limit the number of people that need attention. It will however increase our time in this place.”

  Rhys speaking up. “Our time is devoted to your training at this point. We are not in a rush, we will go with what ever your wishes are.”

  “It was pretty scary watching Mick fallout.” Milly says. The others quickly all nod in agreement, and pause for thought.

  “Um, I don’t like the idea of having two or more of us unconscious simultaneously. What if we get attacked?” Mick asks, breaking the silence.

  “Yeah but we have Rhys and the Empress for back up.” Jackson says.

  Connie, shaking her at Jackson, tells him. “We can not rely on them to help us out. Rhys, Iris and I will be busy with whom ever is unconscious. The Empress, while is no doubt able to handle everything in this place by herself. Even better than all of us together. She will not always be there and we need to learn to handle our own problems. If she steps in we learn nothing,”

  Dylan says, “Not only that but we would risk enraging the dungeon.”

  Claire standing next to Tanner, “If Tanner Tiers up first, he could help the rest of us with any problems Leveling, Gaining our Classes, or Tiering up.”

  “If I can think of anything, I would certainly help, any or all of you.” Tanner speaks up.

  Claire, taking firm leadership of the group, announces. “Then we level Tanner to Tier One. Mick will Tier up next. Our healers, Iris, and Connie, their Class, and Tier. I think they may help with any problems we run into. Then Karnna, and Lilli, our protection. Then Jackson our control. Dylan, Milly, and I will go last.” The rest all smile and nod. “Now we have to find what Tanner and Mick’s Classes are all about.” She smiles. “Alright boys, let see what you can do.”

  Tanner starts with showing off his Arcane weapons skills by sparring everyone. All agree in a close in fight his new Spells are effective for shorter duration fights. Handling all three together is costly. Arcane Missiles is an excellent upgrade from his Bolt Spell and an enormous increase in damage output. The actual surprise everyone finds is that you can cast Arcane Explosion as long as you have AP available, and line of sight with no cool down. Tanner finds the drawback to AP once he reaches under 25 percent, he gets exhausted. AP generates faster than MP and HP, and will regenerate during battle. Arcane Touch helps the others regenerate their usable points faster and gives a refreshing boost of energy.

  “Okay Mick, you are next, I think we have a handle on what Tanner can do. I do not believe we will get much more information without an actual fight. Let’s see your Status Sheet.” Bree Announces.

  **** TITIAN OF BATTLE (EPIC) ***** THIS CLASS WILL GRANT SPELLS *** (CLASS) TITIAN’S PHYSIQUE (LEVEL 1) *** (CLASS) SPELL CASTING. WITH THIS CLASS, YOU HAVE GAINED THE ABILITY TO CAST SPELLS. *** (CLASS SPELL) AURA OF FEAR *** (CLASS SKILL) TITIAN’S CHARGE ***** + 4 TO HIT POINTS, + 4 TO MANA POINTS, + 3 TO BODY, + 3 TO MIND. +3 TO ASSIGN PER LEVEL.

  “So why did I pass out, and will anybody else?” Mick asks.

  “Honestly this is just a guess but when you chose your class, your body was flooded with Essences and it made several changes for your Advanced Class. I think it is the Titian portion in your class that caused this.” Rhys answers.

  Bree asks him to spar and test the new skills. After a few uses of his new class skills, Mick finds himself exhausted. Rhys scrutinizing him. “He needs to get used to using his Skills and Spells, his body cannot keep up with his Class, I think once he levels up or he Tiers up, he will be fine.”

  “So I have a broken Class, I’m not going to become a Delver, am I.” Mick says dejected. “I’m one of the broken.”

  “No you are not. I firmly believe you simply need to Tier up.” Rhys says to him.

  “Tanner can you infuse him?”

  “I have been, Let me try contact.” Tanner says placing his hands on Mick’s shoulder.

  “Okay, I can feel a difference when your hands are on me.”

  Jackson, laughing, says. “What happens in the Dungeon stays in the Dungeon.”

  “Jackson this is not funny,” Snickers Milly.

  Connie’s smile belies her words, “This is totally serious guys.”

  Claire says, “I thought we had something special Tanner.”

  Lilli sounding broken hearted, “I was going to ask you out Mick.”

  Karnna puts her arms around Lilli and says dejectedly, “I wanted to date him, too.“

  “Sorry I could have said that better.” Mick apologizes.

  “I hate you all.” Tanner says walking away, as even the shy Dylan and Iris roll on the ground, holding each other and laughing.

  “Now that we have learn the importance of phrasing. Should we have Tanner or Mick Tier up first? I can see a case made for either. Tanner will help more at Tier 1. Mick will not need as much support, if any, after he Tiers. Thoughts?” Bree says with a slight smile.

  “Will Tanner be able to help us when we actually go through the Tiering up process?” Connie asks.

  Rhys answers, “Having gone through it myself I believe he could have a very marked effect, While I am not sure what Arcane Essence does it has definitely had a positive effect overall on your entire group.”

  “My vote is for Tanner first. If he can help my brother while he Tiers up then the choice isn’t really a choice.” Milly’s voice trails off, betraying her worries. Mick, sitting down next to his sister, puts his arm around her. They look at each other silently for a few moments, then nod their heads.

  “Tanner first.” Mick announces.

  “So we have three camps close by that we can see from this hilltop. I see six patrols roving between the camps. The closest camp has eight goblins in camp, we can not see into the other camps from here.” Claire says.

  “I thought the Camps had nine to twelve goblins each?” Milly asks.

  “The others are most likely on watch.” Jackson says.

  “Make sense.” Iris says.

  Tanner orders. “Lets all go to the closer hilltop and look at the camp and how the patrols are moving. Keep low, we can get a look at the layout, see if all the camps are the same. Then form an attack plan.”

  After watching the patrols and looking over the camp, the group makes plans. The decuplet decide to approach from the east with the morning sun at their backs. Claire, scouting ahead, finds the location of the missing goblins. After rejoining the group, she shows the locations on a crude map they have drawn. Deciding to sneak up on the lookouts and taking them quietly, Jackson and Tanner split from the group and approach the first lookout. Jackson stuns the lone goblin and Tanner walks quickly to the helpless opponent, killing the unconscious goblin. The two rejoin the group. The party circles the camp. Searching for the next lookout, stunning and killing them as they move around the goblin camp. The decuplet establishes a trap on the approach to the camp, planning to ambush the first patrol heading to the camp. With the Morning sun at their backs, crouched alongside the path, the goblin patrol is quickly overwhelmed. The group moves from the first ambush point to the next. Four goblin patrols later, Tanner receives an alert banner.

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  “Hold up everyone, I just hit level 11, I am being asked if I want to advance? I only have the yes open, the no is lined out.” Tanner states.

  “All right everyone gather round. We need to get this taken care of before we go any further.” Bree calls out.

  “What do I do now?” Tanner asks.

  “Sit and relax. You may experience some discomfort, not everyone does but some have. Some have gotten visions of their class progression. Some just Tier up without anything significant happening, it seems to vary.” Rhys says to him after he sits down.

  “So we are not sure what will happen when I select yes?” Tanner asks.

  Rhys laughing tells him. “We do know, that because it is you, it will most likely be a spectacle.” As the others all laugh, Tanner gives a small, nervous smile. Taking a breath, Tanner chooses.

  Finding himself in a room filled with brilliant white light. Turning around to get his bearings. Tanner hears a voice behind him, “Hello, Tanner, we have a few things we need to discuss.” Spinning back around, Tanner can barely make out a presence now in front of him. “I am so sorry, is this better? I forget how sensitive young eyes can be.” Tanner can now see the woman sitting at a small table with a vacant chair across from her. “Please sit. I am sure you have many questions. If I can, I'll answer a few. I am here to give you some guidance. Please be aware I cannot answer some questions you may have. I am constrained by rules that limit even me.” Walking over to the chair Tanner sits. “Tea?” the woman offers.

  “Uh yes please?” Tanner replies. The smiling woman hands Tanner a small delicate tea cup. “Do you know who I am?” she asks.

  “The Goddess?” he answers.

  “I am indeed the one you call, The Goddess.” She grins. “I guess it was pretty obvious. I apologize for all the drama. Some people require an over the top performance to get their attention. It can save time when dealing with those individuals. Something is coming, a test of this world. You and your friends can help to deal with it. However, certain things must be fixed before any of us can move forward. I can not give you any more information than that. You and your friends are doing fine. You all just need to get stronger, okay?”

  “Yes Ma’am,”

  “Now I can answer a few questions if you like, we have a little time.”

  “Why me? Why do I have this Affinity? What is it? What are you? Oh sorry that was rude.”

  Laughing, the Goddess answers, “Not really. Many people want an answer to that last question. To simplify, I was born before the World SPLIT. My path started out just like you, Tier ‘0’ Level ‘0’. I and my friends advanced until we were strong enough to take this job. I am breaking this down a lot. As we advance on our paths, we change a tremendous amount. If I were to reveal my true self to you, the chances are high that you would be injured in someway.” She explains to him gently.

  “Uh, okay.” Tanner replies.

  “As for why you? You are of the Arcane, something in you resonates with the Arcane Essence. Arcane is what you now call an Origin Essence. Arcane is one of the building blocks of our universe. So it is quite powerful. You are the first in a very long time to be born with the ability to not only touch it in its purest form but to use it. Even in my time it was rare but not unheard of. My Father was of the Arcane. I must stress what is going to happen will happen regardless. Your involvement will make thing easier for everyone but you are not a chosen of the universe or anything like that. So don’t get a gigantic head or worry. Balance will come in it’s own time not before. You and your friends can help achieve the Balance sooner. Or you can all just level and continue with your lives like nothing is happening. I am sorry my time with you is up. Drink your tea, this cup was brewed specially for you. Don’t forget to share, you will know when and with who.”

  Tanner finds himself alone at the table with his teacup. Guzzling from the cup, thinking to drain it all at once. Tanner discovers the cup holds much more than the size would suggest. Finally draining the cup, Tanner sets it down on the table.

  “Well how was it? Good?” Jumping in startled surprise, Tanner see an older man sitting in the space the Goddess had occupied.

  “Who are you?” he asks.

  “You were just talking to my daughter.” the man states. “Oh, so you are one of the gods?” Tanner asks. “Absolutely not.” the man emphatically states. “Way too many responsibilities, and way too many restrictions. I snuck in when my daughter had the door open, so to speak. I am here to help you. Well, as much as I can, anyway. Your party is going to run into some problems. Try looking at balancing your spiritual bodies. You need hands on training. Here, take this,” He tells Tanner, sliding a large coin shaped object across the table to him. “Also I need you to look at this.” he says, unrolling a large sheet of paper. “A map?” Tanner asks. “Yes, you need to go here. Before the next harvest month, if not you and your friends will most likely die or be killed for the protection of others. The token will mark you.” The man tells him, pointing to a spot on the map. “That token will let you in. A few other things too, but you will find out about that over time. Now you need to leave. We may get to talk again. Luck Tanner, I have high hopes for you kids. I wish you well.”

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT FOUNDATION ***** +10 TO ALL DAMAGE. + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  ****** NEW MINOR TITLE GRANTED ***** INHERITOR ***** This is a timed event. If not completed on time, you risk becoming broken.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others that hold the same quest.

  Is the first thing Tanner sees. “What just happened?” Tanner asks, a little panicked.

  “Nothing You sat down, then you just made the choice to Tier.” Bree answers him.

  “Where did you get that?” Rhys asks bewildered, pointing at Tanner's lap.

  He looks down. Tanner finds a rolled map and a small teacup. When he investigates the teacup, he finds the token the strange man slid across the table. Quietly dumping the teacup into the palm of his hand, the token falls out of the cup. As the token lands in his hand, Tanner can feel the object slide into his hand with an icy chill feeling, and vanish like it never existed. As everyone is looking at Tanner in stunned silence. Tanner stands gripping the rolled parchment in one hand and the teacup in the other, paces around the group in contemplation. The rest of his party, sensing Tanner needs a few minutes to settle his mind, leave him to his thoughts.

  Finally, unable to take Tanner’s silence, Claire steps into his path. “Tanner talk to me, talk to us.” She says, gesturing to the rest of the group.

  “Sorry, I met the Goddess.” Tanner states, stepping around Claire and beginning to pace again.

  Once again, the group looks at each other, filled with shock. Rhys breaking free of his astonishment. Pulls his travel desk out of his storage, along with paper and writing sticks. “Tanner, come over here and sit. Write down everything you remember.” He tells him firmly.

  Tanner, stopping to look at Rhys, nods his head. “Yes good idea.” Tanner sits at the desk and writes his experience.

  Bree states. “Tanner when we get back I want you to talk to Eunice about all of this. Before you tell anyone else. If the wrong people hear you talk about actually sitting down and talking to the Goddess, you could be charged with hearsay before Eunice could get to you. Some church members can be overzealous, they would kill you and think they were doing the Goddess’s work.”

  “What about meeting her father?” Tanner asks.

  “Tanner. Do. Not. Say. Another. Word.”

  “Oh, okay, I never really thought much about any of this before.”

  Bree instructs the others to keep this secret. Don’t even mention it to each other. “Tanner was anything that was said have any effect on us continuing the Dungeon run?”

  “No,”

  “Then as soon as you have this completed we will continue on.” Bree declares.

  “I need to check my Status, before we leave.” A short time later, after checking his Status Sheet, Tanner announces, “I got two new titles, and the perfect Tier bonus is gone. It looks like one of the new titles gives the bonus. Maybe it was just for Tier ‘0’, now that I am Tier ‘1’ I kept the +10 but the damage no longer increases now. What so you guys think?”

  “I think you maybe right. We will have to wait to see the rest of us Tier up to know for sure.” Connie answers.

  “Well Mick you are up, the next patrols are your kills. Tanner stay close to Mick, just in case.” Rhys asks. Both young men nod agreement and move to the front.

  After using the same tactics used on the last goblin patrol for the area. Tanner announces. “I want us to hit the first camp we saw, I have come up with a plan.”

  Once close enough to see into the Camp, they find the goblins all gathered around the morning fire tearing into strips of greasy, vile looking meat. Tanner taps Mick on the shoulder, pointing to the two biggest goblins. Mick nods his head in understanding that they are his responsibility. Tanner, tapping Jackson on the shoulder points to a second grouping of three as Jackson’s stun targets. With shoulder taps and pointing, Tanner shows everyone their targets. Tanner makes sure everybody has their assigned targets. “On my signal.” He whispers. Casting Arcane Explosion into the middle of the campfire. The group sprints into the camp opening. The goblins, still stunned by the unexpected explosion, are slow to react. Mick, yelling a battle cry for a Taunt, catches the attention of his two targets. Lilli dances in close behind in Mick's wake, to help keep the two highest leveled goblins busy. Karnna post herself in front of her group’s casters. Jackson casts Psionic Wail on his targets and begins cursing as two of the goblins fall into the remains of the fire. The two regaining conciseness from the burns of the fire, jump upright, Jackson fires off Psionic Wail several more times until the goblins fall. Tanner and Claire, Connie and Iris, Milly and Dylan all paired, focus casting on the remaining unoccupied goblins, killing them. The trio of pairs shift focus to Jackson’s unburned goblin. The goblin stands and staggers towards Connie, it too falls dead.

  “Jackson. Damage, follow my lead.” Tanner calls out.

  “Got it.” Jackson replies. Connie dropping back casts Ranged Heal on Lilli. While Iris casts Range Heal on Mick. Tanner, Claire, and Jackson finish one of the burned goblins while Dylan and Milly kill off the burned last level nine goblin. Turning to the remaining Classed goblins, Tanner finds himself close enough to Identify the last two.

  “Warrior Class on the left. Berserker on the right. Take the Warrior first.”

  Claire moves behind the warrior and starts slashing it from behind with her sword staff, casting her Primal Bolt through her weapon. Jackson casts Mind Blast over and over. Tanner, realizing that his level nine team members are not doing as much damage against the Classed goblins, draws his short swords and dives into the warrior, mauling it.

  The goblin, turning his attention from Mick to Tanner, roars in Tanner's face. Tanner snarls back at the creature falling into the marital patterns of the Menocte Way. Bewildered by the weaving duel swords, the goblin gives ground, finding itself slashed and bleeding out. As the frightened goblin turns to run from Tanner's onslaught, it comes face to face with Claire and her sword staff. Claire’s attacks speed up, striking at the goblin's face and eyes slowing the goblins' flight. Tanner, seizing the opportunity, stabs both blades into the back of the goblin, severing its spine. Tanner relentlessly rides the goblin's back to the ground, stabbing at its vital areas and killing it. Claire, leaves the dying goblin, turns to the remaining foe. Karnna rushes to the goblins' side as Claire steps to the Berserker’s back and slashes. Lilli stepping to the goblin’s side opposite of Karnna. Mick still keeping the goblin’s focus on him.

  After spotting the red glare in the Berserker’s eyes, Mick shouts. “Get back.”

  The four jumping back watch as the goblin spins and furiously twirls its axe. Mick Taunts, the goblin, into following him, taking the goblin’s charge on his shield. The goblin’s assault is so brutal, the impact launches Mick backwards several feet onto his back. Claire jumping forward, slashes her sword into the goblin's neck. Claire jumps back out of the goblin’s reach and resets her fighting stance. Tanner charges in from his side, weaving his short swords around and into the goblin. As the goblin slumps in exhaustion, Tanner steps forward and stabs his short sword between the goblin’s neck and collarbones, thrusting it into its chest, once again getting the kill.

  “Tanner I could use a little Essence infusion. Still not quite keeping up. Sorry.”

  “Nothing to be sorry for, you seem to be doing better.” Tanner says looking Mick over.

  “I will agree to that.” Rhys says to the two boys. “Mick, you don’t seem to be as worn out. How do you feel?”

  “Okay just a little tired.” Mick replies.

  “You don’t look near as bad as earlier. Your Essences are much stronger. I just wish I knew for certain what is going on with you.”

  “Alright gather round for recovery and let’s talk about what went wrong, what went right.” Bree asks the young delvers to gather around her.

  “I think when we took out the lookouts things were done correctly.” Claire says.

  “I agree with that, Jackson was key, by stunning them we could keep that part quiet.” Tanner speaks up from Mick's side.

  “I will agree. The only thing you could have done differently would be to have your stealth fighters go after them.” Rhys informs the adventure group.

  “We don’t have any stealth fighters.” Claire speaks up.

  “Actually Claire, you Lilli or Iris would all be candidates for training up. Your training with Tolbur, Lilli’s Talent, and Iris’s Nature Affinity would make any of you very effective.” Bree says. “That is just something to consider. It may or may not appeal to you girls.”

  “I messed up.” Jackson says quietly.

  “How so?” Bree asks, slightly puzzled.

  “Two of my stuns fell into the fire and woke back up almost immediately. I had to work much harder to knock them out again,” Jackson explains.

  “I think that was more bad luck than a mistake, Jackson.” Bree gently tells the young man.

  “No, they were too close to the fire. When I stun something, they almost always fall forward on their faces.” Jackson revels.

  “That is an interesting catch, Jackson.” Bree nods in approval.

  “I just need to hold off until they are not in front of a fire next time.” Jackson replies.

  “Well I noticed I was not doing as much damage as I was expecting on the Classed goblins. I don’t understand why. I didn’t do anything different.” Lilli complains.

  “I will answer this one.” Rhys says, standing up from Mick and walking forward. “Once you or an opponent is Classed. There is around a five percent baseline increase to your effectiveness. It can go up to a ten percent increase in ability no matter what the Attribute Statuses say. It will show when you Tier up as an increase in your Mind and Body Points. Essences are compressed into you in preparation of Tiering up. So in effect, those of you under level 10 are less effective when fighting the Classed opponents. It just means the fight will take longer, as you are not doing as much damage.”

  “Why such a variable? Five percent seems like a lot.” Connie asks.

  “That seems like a lot, but it truly depends on the Class holder. Some Classes are more efficient than others. Remember what I told you earlier about your effectiveness once you, Tier? I think you all will be monsters soon enough. Tanner is a prefect example. There is a vast difference in his Essence concentration, when I compare between him and the rest of you. Mick is getting there but not quite yet. I do not believe his body is ready for what he has chosen. That is why he needs to tier up. Over all you are all doing better than I expected. You all have learned to not only fight together. You have all also learned to give and receive critiques productively. This has been very effective in your practical education. I am really quite proud of all of you. Keep up the great work.”

  “I agree.” Bree says. “If everybody is ready, let’s get going.”

  Approaching the third camp in their current area. “You ready Mick? This camp will Tier you up.” Tanner quietly asks his friend.

  “Little nervous actually, the class choice didn’t work out so well.”

  “I think I know why.” Tanner states.

  “What? Really?” Mick turns to him in surprise.

  “Rhys is right. I am positive Tiering up will fix you. Focus on the fight, you'll be fine. Okay? Now drink this,” Tanner orders, handing him the tea cup.

  “What’s in it?” Mick asks.

  “Tea,” Tanner smirks “Drink.”

  “Fine, I’ll drink the tea.”

  “Careful it holds a lot more than you think.”

  Mick, standing in the ruins of the latest goblin camp, announces. “Level 11, I have this message.”

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  Rhys, stepping up to the newly leveled young man, guides him to a place to sit. “Sit here before you select YES, just in case.” After sitting down, Mick selects YES

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT TIER ***** + 10 TO ALL DAMAGE. + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25 PERCENT TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  “Wow this feels amazing.” Mick grabs his chest, laughing.

  Rhys, observing the young man intently, starts listing his observations out loud. “Mick the Essences surrounding you and entering are much thicker for lack of a better term. They are also entering into your chest at a much greater and faster rate.”

  Bree interjects, “Mick lets see your Status Sheet.” “Oh right sorry this just feels so much better. I kind of got a little lost.” Mick says, showing the party his Status.

  After everyone has looked over Mick's status, Rhys breaks the silence. “What the HELL is going on with you kids…” Rhys mutters, trailing off.

  “I think I know.” Tanner answers.

  “Care to share?” Rhys asks, rising an eyebrow.

  “Not yet, not until everyone has Tiered up.” Tanner states. “I have my suspicions, I just don’t want to believe it.”

  Rhys chuckles. “Well the rest of us want to know.” Milly demands. As the rest of the groups nods their heads in agreement with Milly.

  Tanner stops and looks them all over. “I will only tell you once you all Tier up. Don’t ask again, please. If I am mistaken, I don’t want anyone to be disappointed.” He stands and contemplates the rest of the group. “I think we will still have Connie to level next, that way if we get into more than we can handle, she will heal all of us more effectively. What do the rest of you think?”

  Claire, looking at everyone, says, “I think that is an excellent idea. We should keep the schedule, Iris should be next after Connie, then the rest of us in order like we decided, I will go last.” As the other nod their heads in agreement, Bree points the younger party members toward the next set of camps. Having an excellent system for taking out the goblin camps has proven a boon to the speed of the decuplet’s completion rate. Taking on the patrols roaming between the camps once again. Connie finds herself at Level 10 much faster than prepared for.

  “I hit Level 10. Look at my Status.”

  Connie's Class Choice

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE HAVING AN ORIGIN ESSENCE AFFINITY HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES. EXPOSURE TO OTHER ORIGIN ESSENCES HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: MARTIAL HEALER, ** CLASS EVOLUTION DUE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE **** RARE: CELESTIAL MONK ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, *** THIS HEALER/MONK IS ABLE TO RESURRECT THE DEAD ONCE PER DAY. RESURRECTION IS ABLE TO BE ACCOMPLISHED PROVIDED THE TARGET HAS BEEN DECEASED LESS THAN 1 HOUR. 10% PENALTY APPLIES FOR EVERY MINUTE OVER 1 HOUR. HEALER MUST REST FOR 4 HOURS AFTER SPELL USE OR RISK DEATH. ALL HEALING SPELLS ARE TWO TIMES AS EFFECTIVE. WEAPON USE IS RESTRICTED. ALL DAMAGING SPELLS ARE CAST THROUGH THE MONK’S BODY ***** NOTE WILL SYNERGIZE WITH YOUR AFFINITY. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT CLASS). ***** WARNING ***** ***** PHYSICAL CHANGES MAY OCCUR ***** ******

  RARE: INFERNAL PUNISHER, THIS MAGE USES PAINFUL IMMEDIATE DAMAGE AND DAMAGE OVER TIME SPELLS TO PUNISH ALL WHO OPPOSE HER WILL. THIS MAGE UTILIZES THE POWER OF DARKNESS AND INFERNAL TO CAST DEBUFFS IN THE FORM OF CURSES AND SUMMONS TO FIGHT BY HER SIDE. WEAPONS USE LIMITED TO WEAPON’S OF TORTURE. **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS). ***** WARNING ***** ***** PHYSICAL CHANGES WILL OCCUR ***** ******

  RARE: DEVINE JUSTICAR, THIS MAGE USES PAINFUL IMMEDIATE DAMAGE AND DAMAGE OVER TIME SPELLS TO SMITE HER ENEMIES WITH RIGHTEOUS FURY. THIS MAGE UTILIZES THE POWER OF LIGHT AND DEVINE TO CAST BUFFS IN THE FORM OF BLESSINGS AND SUMMONS TO FIGHT BY HER SIDE. WEAPONS USE LIMITED TO WEAPON’S OF MERCY. **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS). ***** WARNING ***** ***** PHYSICAL CHANGES WILL OCCUR ***** ******

  EPIC: CELESTIAL BATTLE MAGE, BEARERS OF THIS CLASS CARRY THE FIGHT TO THE ENEMY, BRINGING THE RIGHTEOUS FURY OF THE GODS OR THE WRATH OF THE UNHOLY FORTH TO SMITE THEIR FOES. OPPONENTS FEAR THIS CRUSADER’S APPEARANCE ON THE BATTLE FIELD WITH GOOD REASON. AN UNSTOPPABLE FORCE FOR GOOD OR ILL, THE DECISION IS YOURS. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE / DEFENSIVE CLASS)

  UNIQUE: THIS CLASS WILL BE UNIQUE TO YOU. **** MAGE OF CELESTIAL INTENT***** THIS CLASS WILL COMBINE SOME OF THE TALENTS, SPELLS AND SKILLS, THUS FAR SHOWN INTO NEW SYNERGISTIC FORMS ** CELESTIAL MANIPULATION (LEVEL 1). ALL SPELLS RECEIVE BONUSES, THE SKILLS: * STUDY BECOMES CELESTIAL STUDY. YOU WILL BECOME A LYNCH PIN OF THE PARTY. THE ANCHOR THAT HOLDS THE MIDDLE. THE ONLY LIMITS ARE YOUR IMAGINATION. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A UTILITY CLASS, HOWEVER, CONTROL, DEFENSE, OFFENSE, FRONT LINE, DAMAGE AT ANY RANGE, AND HEALING ARE ALL POSSIBLE)

  “My advice is take the unique class. If you have not figured out what any of that means.” Tanner advises quietly.

  “Do you know what all this means, Tanner?”

  “I think so.”

  “Do we really need to talk about this?” Connie asks. I have no desire to undergo any changes. So those are out. I am taking Tanner's advice.

  UNIQUE: THIS CLASS WILL BE UNIQUE TO YOU. ****MAGE OF CELESTIAL INTENT***** THIS CLASS WILL SYNERGIZE WITH THE TALENT: * CELESTIAL MANUPULATION (LEVEL 5). ALL CELESTIAL SPELLS. DAMAGE BONUSES AND THE SKILL: * STUDY BECOMES * CELESTIAL STUDY. YOU WILL BECOME A MASTER OF CELESTIAL MANIPULATION (WITH EFFORT). *** NOTE *** HIT POINTS, AND MANA POINTS WILL COMBINE AND CONVERT INTO CELESTIAL POINTS. *** THE ONLY LIMITS ARE YOUR IMAGINATION. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A UTILITY CLASS, HOWEVER CONTROL, DEFENSE, OFFENSE, FRONT LINE, DAMAGE DEALER, EVEN HEALING, ARE ALL POSSIBLE WITH EFFORT). ***** +10 TO CP, +5 TO MIND. + 5 TO BODY. +4 ATTRIBUTE POINTS TO ASSIGN PER LEVEL.

  “Rhys can I talk to you privately for a few minutes?”

  “Okay,” Rhys follows Tanner off to the side. The two leave the rest, looking over Connie’s status. “Have you looked over Claire with your Essence Sight?” Tanner asks the other man.

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  “Not really in any detail, just a glance here and there why?”

  “I’ve been playing with my manipulation. Trying to figure out how I have been helping with the Attribute gains.”

  Rhys gives a self depreciating laugh. “This is so new to me, not to mention all we have had going on. I never even thought to look while you did that.”

  “Somehow I am feeling someone else doing the same. I think it is Claire’s Primal Essence. It feels kind of like Claire anyway if that makes sense.”

  “While Healing someone I get a sort of feel for that person. So I think I may know what your talking about.”

  “I think Arcane helps attributes, I think Primal helps with Affinities. I think Claire is bringing everyone’s Affinities up a notch.”

  Rhys gives Tanner a troubled look. “Are you sure?” He asks.

  “No that is why I am talking to you. I didn’t want to say anything and get somebodies hopes up then be mistaken and they be disappointed. But with Connie I really think I am right.”

  “How so?” Rhys asks him.

  “Connie has Celestial as an Affinity right?” Rhys nods in agreement. “She suddenly starts casting harm spells. I have been fighting urges to use other Essences. I am feeling Prime Essences much sooner than I should be. If we ask Claire, I would bet she is, too. Our Origin Affinities feel like gradual increases to our power as we level. We get basic spells in our Origin affinities until Tier Two. Then we are supposed to sense our Prime affinities enough to learn to cast spells with them. Our Prime Affinities have been increasing much faster than what they should be. Now look at her class choices. Two are complete opposites. One class seems to be a mix of the other two. The other unique class sounds almost like mine. I think when she Tiers up, her Prime Affinities will start effecting her Spells like mine are. Watch Mick. I’ve seen Tier One’s with his Affinity. He moves closer to a Tier Two, not actually there but much smoother. He is moving way better than Lilli now. He is still strong, before he was a little, not clumsy so much as stiff maybe? Any way if you watch him you will see what I mean. He moves way better than he did.”

  “You have definitely piqued my interest.” Rhys says to him while looking over the rest of the party. “How did you figure this out?” Rhys asks him.

  “I like the basic Affinities Class, it’s my favorite. When I read the text book in the first two weeks of class, I started going to the library and started reading everything I could on the subject. I also came across books on Origin Essences. I got to thinking that Celestial as an Origin Essence should act like Arcane and Primal somewhat, but Connie is not using like that. She has started with Healing Spells. Then Connie was casting harm spells. That should not be typical Origin Spell, her spells should be more basic but also more powerful just like mine and Claire’s. I think her Affinities are seeking balance. When I looked over Connie’s Class choices kind of made everything click. Mick is the one that got me wondering if it was possible. So I really started using Arcane manipulation. The more I used it the better I could sense something else in everybody. Can you see anything?” Tanner asks.

  “Yes Now that you have brought it to my attention. Claire is linked to everybody but you, me and her Mother and Mick. Wonder why?”

  “I think you and Bree are too high a level for us to effect. Also I think your Tier has to be maxed out Attribute wise, I noticed when I interacted with Mick after he tiered up I could affect him the rest I can not.”

  “Hmm I can see she is not really as linked to Mick and you as much as she is to the rest. You may very well be on to figuring out some answers.” Rhys turns to Tanner, flashing him a grin. “And you are right not to say anything just in case. Though someone else may figure it out.”

  “Hey you guys coming? You need to see my Status and I want to tier up. ” Connie says with a grin.

  “Be right there Connie.” Tanner answers her.

  “Connie you should Level about half way through this camp. I want you to yell for Iris when you hit eleven. Iris when Connie calls your name step up and becoming the killing force we all know and love. Alright you two?” Tanner instructs the two.

  “You got boss.” Iris says, snapping off a bad salute.

  “Connie, join Jackson in neutralizing the sentries and then rejoin the party.” After working back to the party, Connie observes she only needs one more kill for her level.

  “Remember call for Iris soon as you get the notice and fall back. Then just heal until we clear the camp. Got it?”

  “Got it.”

  “Alright everyone, Follow the plan. Mick on your lead.” Shortly after, Connie calls for Iris and falls back to healing. Iris seems to glide through her opponents, bow in hand, draw, and release, dealing killing blows with little effort. As the last goblin falls, the party gathers around Connie.

  “Wait, drink this before you chose.” Tanner asks, holding out his teacup.

  “What is it?” Connie asks. Tanner smiles and says. “Tea.” Connie smiles back and starts drinking. After finishing the Tea, Connie makes the choice.

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT FOUNDATION ***** +10 TO ALL DAMAGE. + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  As the group looks over Connie’s Status Sheet and the Changes, she has undergone. Tanner looks at Rhys and smiles. Rhys nods. “You are on to something.”

  “Our Affinities are advancing aren’t they?” Connie asks.

  “Yes I believe they are.” Tanner answers.

  “How is this possible I always thought they are set and can not change?” Jackson asks.

  Rhys, speaking up, tells the group. “Affinities do advance but it is much slower than what you guys are doing. Tanner and I believe it is the exposure to the Origin Essences. Lets get everyone we can to level 11, then we can break for the day and go over everything we know and suspect. Who is next?”

  “I am, Me, me. I’m so eager. You guys had better have gotten me something good,” Iris calls jumping up and down with excitement.

  Tanner laughs. “I’m not sure it works that way, but I will give you your money back if you are disappointed. Hows that sound?”

  “I have never paid you money.”

  “Then you have no reason to be disappointed.”

  As all laugh at poor Iris, she pulls her bow out of storage and says, “You guys suck. Lets go.” Still chuckling, the others fall into line with her.

  “Ugh, my whole upper body is killing me, but I hit level ten. I want to select my Class now. I need a slight break.”

  Rhys smiles at the girl. “Okay we can do that, it will give us more information for you guys, if you have the same issues as Mick then we can see if we can delay the Class selection until Level Eleven for everyone else.”

  “Ha, see how much I care about you all? I am willing to be a test subject for your advancement.”

  Lilli smirks. “Or you neglected your weapons practice so much you aren’t ready for an extended fight.”

  “Oh hush, just because none of the rest of us are so ate up we sleep with our weapons. Doesn’t mean we don’t practice.” Lilli flushes with embarrassment.

  A smiling Bree announces, “Circle up folks let’s take a break, and look Iris’s choices over.”

  Iris's Class Choice

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE YOUR EXPOSURE TO ARCANE, PRIMAL AND CELESTIAL ESSENCES OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: RANGER, ** CLASS EVOLUTION DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE **** RARE: NATURE’S WARRIOR ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, *** THIS RANGER IS ABLE TO SUMMON A FIGHTING COMPANION ONCE PER DAY. THIS COMPANION WILL FIGHT UNTIL DEATH, HEALING CAN BE USED ON YOUR NEW FRIEND. YOUR SUMMONS WILL LAST 24 HOURS UNLESS KILLED. THE SUMMONS WILL HAVE THE SAME STATS AS THE SUMMONER.(THIS IS CONSIDERED A RANGED DAMAGE CLASS).

  RARE: NATURES WRATH, THIS MAGE USES THE POWERFUL FORCES OF NATURE AGAINST THOSE THAT TRANSGRESS AGAINST HER. THIS CLASS HARNESSES THE VERY ESSENCE OF NATURE. THIS CLASS WILL SUMMON THE NATURAL CREATURES OF THE ENVIRONMENT, BE IT INSECTS, ANIMAL, VEGETABLE, OR MINERAL TO FIGHT THE FOE AND BURY THEM IN THE GROUND TO FERTILIZE THE NEXT GENERATION. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: ENVIRONMENTAL MAGE, BEARERS OF THIS CLASS HEAL THE SICK, THE WEAK, AND INFIRM. USING SPELLS TO CONTROL THE FORCES OF THE ENVIRONMENT CALLING AND CONTROLLING THE FLORA, AND FAUNA AROUND THEM. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A CONTROL, OFFENSIVE OR DEFENSIVE CLASS)

  EPIC: DRUID, THIS MAGE IS ABLE TO COMMUNE WITH THE NATURAL WORD AROUND HER. THE DRUID MOVES THROUGH A WORLD OF SOUND FROM THE PLANTS IN THE GROUND TO THE CREATURES OF THE SKY SHE CAN COMMUNICATE WITH ALL OF NATURES CREATURES. THE DRUID HEALS THE SICK AND MENDS THE BROKEN IN NATURE ABLE TO TAKE THE SHAPE OF ANIMALS TO FIGHT AND TRAVEL THIS MAGE IS A FORMIDABLE AND INTRACTABLE FOE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT CLASS) ** DUE TO PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCES THIS CLASS MAY EVOLVE TO MAGUS.

  “Your first choice seems to be they way you are fighting now except for the summons.” Milly says.

  Dylan, looking over her Status observes, “It doesn’t seem to use your full Nature Affinities either.”

  Iris gives a gigantic sigh. “I don’t like the first two choices. The Druid sounds fantastic, and the Environmental Mage seems equally good.”

  Tanner says to her, “I think we need to look at how you want to fulfill your role in our party. One seems more Mage like, the other seems a hybrid between caster and fighter.”

  “One thing Iris, the Druid Class is just like the old elven stories of the Class.” Lilli says to her sister.

  “Oh that would be funny the girls too human to attend the Elf Academy getting better elf classes than the elves.”

  Bree asks in a deadly tone. “What did you just say?”

  Lilli explains sadly, “As half human we have been teased since we were small. Father wanted us to go the Elven Academy, he even paid for it in advance. Our so called peers told us we are too human to attend, and threatened us. Come to find out there are no half blooded in the academy. They either decide to attend somewhere else or drop out and take the delver's test. The assholes took fathers money anyway then did not give it back when we found out about the racism. So father refused to make weapons for all the prominent elves until he got his money back. He was so sad even when we got into Darton. Which is a much better school. You all don’t realize how happy he is that we have such friends as you all.”

  “This will be looked into, the empire can not make this right, the damage has been done. What I can do is make sure any that have been cheated out of an education get one. We can punish those complicit, something like you have describe does not just happen. Please do not decide based on those experiences.”

  “I won’t The Druid is actually something I daydream about.” She says with a blush.

  Dylan slips his arm around her and says, “Then you should take Druid. If it evolves to Magus you will be a force of nature, even more than you are already.”

  With a kiss on Dylan’s cheek, she chooses. “Druid.” Dylan catches her and gently lays her on the ground, then tenderly moves her hair off her face and tucks her ever present flower back in her hair.

  Lilli stoops and kisses Dylan’s cheek, “You better be good to her.”

  “She is the most priceless thing in the world.” Dylan answers.

  Bree says to the group. “While we wait on our sleeping companion, set camp. The rest of you study.”

  “When she wakes up I’ll stick with her.” Tanner says to the others.

  Rhys, watching over the sleeping girl while writing in his journal, tells the others. “She is going through as many changes as Mick, wonder if it is the complexity of your Class change. This is so fascinating.”

  Iris wakes in a few hours. “I feel amazing, I can sense the life around me. I can feel where each one of you are positioned around me.”

  Rhys holds out his hand to help the girl up, “Let’s see your Status Sheet then look over your Skill set. We can get some sparing in and maybe even get you Tiered up today. How does that sound?”

  **** DRUID (EPIC) **** MAGUS (EPIC) (EVOLVED DRUID CLASS) **** DUE TO EXSPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE YOUR CLASS HAS EVOLVED *** (CLASS) COMMUNE WITH NATURE *** (CLASS) SUMMON PLAGUE (INSECTS) *** (CLASS SPELL) SHAPE CHANGE *** (CLASS SKILL) NATURES STRIDE *****

  (+ 4 TO HIT POINTS, + 4 TO MANA POINTS, + 4 TO BODY, + 4 TO MIND, +5 FREE ATTRIBUTES PER LEVEL.)

  Lilli hugs her sister tight. “You got it Magus. Daddy is going to do cartwheels. This is huge I don’t know when the last time an elf got this class but I bet it’s been years, decades at least.”

  Bree laughs, “Actually it has been around 220 years, I remember when he ascended to the next world. Nice job Iris.”

  “Living well is the best revenge ladies.” Rhys chuckles. “Now let us see what she can do. Everybody spar with her and we need to work out how she fits with the rest of you. I am thinking heals, damage and control. She could fill in at the frontline too if she wanted. What an amazing Class.” Iris works with her party members, learning important details about her Class.

  Bree announces, “It is too late in the day to level so let’s eat, have lessons, and you can all do some self study. Then bed, we start at first light tomorrow morning. At this rate we will be here a few more days than expected. Do not worry about that, this is turning out to be worthwhile, the ten of you are going to be legends. I honestly am eager to see how you all progress.”

  The sunrise finds Karnna awake and limbering up. As the rest wake a ready, Karnna calls out. “I am ready lets get me able to fight next to the big man.” Mick flushes red while the other laugh.

  Connie puts her hands on her hips and orders, “Breakfast first. You are not heading out on an empty stomach. Then Iris Tiers up.”

  “Easy for you to say, you have an awesome Class.”

  “There is no doubt in my mind you will get one too. Now sit and eat.”

  “What happened to the cute shy healer we all love?” Karnna asks.

  Tanner laughs at her and says. “She grew up into a confidant, competent, beautiful woman.”

  Mick chuckles as Connie goes on tiptoes to kiss Tanner's cheek. “Damn Tanner. Someday I want to grow up to be that smooth.”

  “Okay, lets finish breakfast and get to leveling.” Bree smiles, shaking her head at the crew's antics.

  Iris hits Level eleven, then calls out. “I need to Tier up. Here is my Status Sheet.”

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT FOUNDATION ***** +10 TO ALL DAMAGE. + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  While the decuplet fight the next few opponents. Rhys says, “Karnna you are much lighter on your feet today, your fighting is more efficient.”

  “Thanks I’m making an effort to be more mobile and gain better positioning.” A few more fights and she calls, “Level Ten guys.” Bree calls a halt. Rhys asks to see her status sheet. After looking it over, he asks her to kill two more goblins. “Well guys we have good news, bad news. She is frozen from experience. Until she chooses her Class. Do not worry your still getting the experience see it of to the side?”

  “Oh good.”

  “I think it will be more effective if we have two or three of you level to ten today, then push to the next Tier. You have four Tier Ones. If you take it slower, you should be fine. What does everyone think?”

  Milly nods her head, “I say yes, we can find a solid defensive spot. If all of them wake up in four or five hours we may even get one or two to Tier up by the end of the day.” The others all agree with Milly’s assessment. Lilli steps to the forefront. After taking on the next two camps, Lilli soon gets to level 10 and her class choice.

  “Well Jackson are you ready? We should get you to level 10 after these two or three camps.” Rhys asks the young man.

  Giving a nervous laugh, Jackson answers, “I think so.”

  Milly, stepping up beside him, says to him. “Don’t worry I’ll catch you when you pass out.”

  “My hero,” Jackson mutters.

  “I’ll take you around to the look outs, to give you some backup. Then we just do what we have been, only you get the kills this time.” Tanner claps him on the back.

  In the middle of the third camp, Jackson calls out, “LEVEL 10.” And steps back. Dylan kills the goblins and finishes the camp. “Let’s find a place to set up camp for the rest of the day.” Rhys asks the group. After camp is set and a fire is going. Bree asks. “Who goes first?”

  Tanner says, “We do it the way we discussed. Karnna, Lilli, then Jax,” Karnna's eyes are bright with excitement as she paces, shows her Status Sheet and Class choices.

  Karnna's Class Choice

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE YOUR EXPOSURE TO ARCANE, PRIMAL AND CELESTIAL ESSENCES OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: AXE WOMAN, ** CLASS EVOLUTION ****RARE: AXE WIELDER ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, ***THIS AGILITY BASED WARRIOR IS ABLE TO USE A GREATAXE ONE HANDED OR TWO HANDED. UTILIZING FOOT WORK AND FIRM STANCES THE AXE WIELDER EXCELS AT UNBALANCING OPPONENTS WITH AXE SKILLS, TAKING ADVANTAGE OF HER UNBALANCED FOES TO DEAL DEVASTATING CRITICAL BLOWS. AXE WIELDER’S CONTROL THE BATTLE FIELD WITH THEIR ENTIRE WEAPON NOT JUST THE AXE HEAD. THE AXE WOMAN KEEPS THEIR OPPONENTS ATTENTION FOCUSED ON DEFENSIVE MANEUVERS WHILE THEIR TEAMMATES FREELY WREAK HAVOC BEHIND THE BATTLE LINES. ***** NOTE WILL SYNERGIZE WITH YOUR AFFINITY. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A DEFENSIVE CLASS).

  RARE: AGILE KNIGHT, THIS WARRIOR USES FULL PLATE MAIL ARMOR, AND TWO-HANDED WEAPON TO FORGE A WALL BETWEEN HER ENEMIES AND ALLIES. USING WEAPONS AND FOOTWORK TO INFLECT DAMAGE THE SKILLS OF THE AGILE KNIGHTS ARE LEGENDARY. *****IF CHOSEN THE CLASS MAY EVOLVE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE * **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: WARRIOR MAGE, THIS CLASS USES THE FIGHTING SKILLS OF A WARRIOR AND THE SPELL CRAFT OF A MAGE TO DEVASTATING EFFECT ON THE BATTLE FIELD. MANA WILL BE USED TO EMPOWER WEAPON MANIPULATION SKILLS AND SPELLS. CASTING OFFENSIVE AREA OF EFFECT SPELLS IN FRONT THEMSELVES OR OTHERS. USE CAUTION AREA OF EFFECT SPELLS DO NOT KNOW FRIENDS OR ENEMIES, THEY ARE DEADLY. THIS CLASS HAS BEEN INFLUENCED BY ORIGIN ESSENCE EXPOSURE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: TITIAN OF BATTLE AXE BARER, HOLDERS OF THIS CLASS CARRY THE FIGHT TO THE ENEMY, BRINGING THE THUNDER OF BATTLE FORTH TO SMITE THEIR FOES. OPPONENTS FEAR THE TITIAN’S APPEARANCE ON THE BATTLE FIELD TO THE POINT THEY ACTUALLY FLEE OR FREEZE IN TERROR. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE / DEFENSIVE CLASS)

  Mick, watching her pace, asks her to sit down before she chooses. Karnna sits beside the big man and snuggles into his side. Mick puts his arm around her. “Well you got it, if you see anything else you like better go for it.”

  “Nope, I want it.”

  “Okay I got you.” Kissing the top of her head. Karnna passes out.

  Lilli snickers. “She was so eager she forgot her bedroll. I’ll lay it out for her.” After Karnna’s bedroll is placed, Mick gently lays the girl down and sits beside her, holding her hand. Lilli places her bedroll on Mick’s opposite side. She snuggles under his arm taking a deep breath, “Here are my choices, I’m only going to consider the two Epic classes.” Lilli announces.

  Looking over her Choices Rhys says to her, “I would think Titian of the Sword will have similarities to Mick’s Class.”

  “I think so too, the descriptions are almost the same.”

  Lilli's Class Choice

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE YOUR EXPOSURE TO ARCANE, PRIMAL AND CELESTIAL ESSENCES OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: SWORD SAINT, ** CLASS EVOLUTION BECAUSE OF EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE ****RARE: SWORDS GRACE ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, ***THIS AGILITY BASED WARRIOR IS ABLE TO USE A WEAPON WITH ONE OR BOTH HANDS. WITH FOOT WORK AND FLUID MOVEMENTS, THE SWORDS GRACE EXCELS AT PARRYING OPPONENTS AND COUNTER STRIKING. MOVING SO FAST THEIR OPPONENTS SEEM ROOTED IN PLACE. THE SWORDS GRACE’S CONTROL OF THE BATTLE FIELD WITH THEIR MOVEMENT AND WEAPON CONTROL SKILLS. SWORD SAINTS KEEP THEIR OPPONENTS OFF BALANCE WHILE THEIR TEAM MATES FREELY PUMMEL THE FOCUS OF THE SWORD GRACE’S IRE. ***** NOTE ALL SKILLS AND SPELLS CURRENTLY KNOW WILL SYNERGIZE WITH YOUR AFFINITY. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  RARE: BATTLE SAINT, THIS WARRIOR USES FULL PLATE MAIL ARMOR, AND TWO HANDS ON A LONGER SWORD. FORCING A HOLE IN THE ENEMIES FORMATION USING DEVASTATING CHARGES AND BRUTAL CLEAVES. USING ARMOR AND LONG WEAPONS TO INFLECT MASSIVE DAMAGE THE SKILLS OF THE BATTLE SAINTS ARE LEGENDARY. *****IF CHOSEN THE CLASS MAY EVOLVE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE * **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: SWORD MAGE, THIS CLASS USES THE FIGHTING SKILLS OF A WARRIOR AND THE SPELL CRAFT OF A MAGE TO DEVASTATING EFFECT ON THE BATTLE FIELD. USING MANA TO EMPOWER YOUR WEAPON’S DAMAGE ALONG WITH SPELLS, THE SWORD MAGE IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. THE CLASS CASTS SPELLS WITH ONE HAND AND SKEWERS OPPONENTS WITH THE OTHER. THE SWORD MAGE IS FEARED BY ALL. THIS CLASS HAS BEEN INFLUENCED BY ORIGIN ESSENCE EXPOSURE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: TITIAN OF THE SWORD, BEARERS OF THIS CLASS CARRY THE FIGHT TO THE ENEMY, BRINGING THE THUNDER OF BATTLE FORTH TO SMITE THEIR FOES. OPPONENTS FEAR THE TITIAN’S APPEARANCE ON THE BATTLE FIELD TO THE POINT THEY ACTUALLY FLEE OR FREEZE IN TERROR. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE / DEFENSIVE CLASS)

  With a smile at Mick, she says, “Just like we discussed.”

  “ You don’t have to. If you see something you want, take it.”

  “I am, I want you silly. You, me, and Karnna we will be Titans together.” She kisses Mick’s hand and falls unconscious. Mick lowers her to the bedroll and makes sure both his ladies can rest in comfort.

  Tanner turns to his friend. “Well, Jax it is time.”

  Jackson asks, “Why have you guys started calling me Jax?” Mick snorts a chuckle, and says, “You needed a nickname, so you got stuck with Jax, Tanner and I wanted to call you Jester.”

  Milly interjects and says, “I suggested Jax. It makes you sound strong and mysterious.”

  Jax, with a bright smile, says, “Thanks guys. I’ve never had any friends care enough to give me a nickname.” Jax takes a deep breath, then shows his Status Sheet.

  Jax's Class Choice

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE YOUR EXPOSURE TO ARCANE, PRIMAL AND CELESTIAL ESSENCES OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: MIND MAGE ** CLASS EVOLUTION DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE ****RARE: PSIONICIST ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, ***THIS MIND BASED MAGE CAN USE THE MIND AS A WEAPON. UTILIZING THE POWER OF THOUGHT THIS MAGE EXCELS AT DAMAGE AND CONTROL. OPPONENTS RARELY HAVE A CHANCE TO RESIST THE TELEKINETIC AND TELEPATHIC POWERS OF THIS MAGE. ATTACKS AT THE SPEED OF THOUGHT KEEP THEIR FOES OFF BALANCE AND OR STUNNED INTO IMMOVABILITY. ALLOWING TEAMMATES TO LAND CRITICAL DAMAGE TO THEIR FOES. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  RARE: PSIONIC, THIS MAGE IS A FONT OF INFORMATION PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE. ABLE TO SEE INTO THE MIND AND DISCOVER THE MOTIVATIONS OF OTHERS LEVERAGING THEM INTO INDECISION AND HESITATION IN OR OUT OF BATTLE. ***IF CHOSEN THE CLASS MAY EVOLVE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE * **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT CLASS)

  RARE: EMPATH MAGE, THIS CLASS USES THE EMOTIONS OF THOSE AROUND THEM TO DEVASTATING EFFECT ON THE BATTLE FIELD. USING AN OPPONENT'S RAGE OR FEAR AGAINST THEM OR BOOSTING YOUR ALLIES COURAGE THIS MAGE IS AN EMOTIONAL FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. THIS MAGE CASTS SPELLS WITH THE MIND AND BATTLES OPPONENTS WITH THEIR OWN EMOTIONS AS WEAPONS. THE EMPATH MAGE IS A MAGE THAT IS LITERALLY FEARED BY ALL. THIS CLASS HAS BEEN INFLUENCED BY ORIGIN ESSENCE EXPOSURE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: OMNIKINETIC (LIMITED), BEARERS OF THIS CLASS ARE ALL ABOUT CONTROL. REALITY IS WHAT YOU MAKE OF IT. THAT ARMOR LOOKS HEAVY YOU SHOULD REST FOR A WHILE. RED HOT ARMOR COULD BURN. THAT SWORD LOOKS HEAVY AND BRITTLE IT WILL SHATTER. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT / CONTROL CLASS)

  “We don’t need to discus this I am going to take the Epic Class no matter what.” Jackson announces after a brief look at his choices.

  “I don’t understand it.” Milly says with a puzzled look.

  “What if your spear weighed more than you, how would you use it?”

  “Wait you could make me think my spear was unusable?”

  “No it would really weigh that much. Or if I made it so brittle it shattered when you hit me.”

  “Oh.” Milly says, wide eyed.

  “It will probably be weak at first, but the potential is mind-boggling.” Jackson says, sitting down next to Milly with a grin. “I choose Omnikinetic.” Milly quickly reaches out to catch Jackson as he passes out.

  “Well at least he was smart enough to sit down first.” She says to everyone as she lays him out on his blankets.

  “Everybody, practice movement, and combat formations while we wait for these three to regain consciousness.”

  Later in the afternoon, Karnna awakens. “How are you feeling?” Rhys asks the young adventurer.

  “Okay, I guess? Just a little, not weak really but kind of off a little? Does that make sense? How long was I out?” She answers.

  “Well, I have been checking you three over and there is nothing wrong with you physically except your Essences are almost like Mick’s were before he Tiered up. A few differences I think results from your Class. You have been sleeping for around four hours. Hungry?”

  Bree walking over and handing Karnna a bowl of stew. “Eat, you have been out for several hours. We can look at your Status Sheet after.”

  Wolfing down the stew and trail bread as fast as she can without choking. “Done. I’m going to open my Status now.” She announces.

  **** TITIAN OF BATTLE AXE BEARER (EPIC) ***** THIS CLASS WILL GRANT SPELLS *** (CLASS) TITIAN’S PHYSIQUE (LEVEL 1) *** (CLASS) SPELL CASTING. WITH THIS CLASS, YOU HAVE GAINED THE ABILITY TO CAST SPELLS. *** (CLASS SPELL) AURA OF FEAR *** (CLASS SKILL) TITIAN’S CHARGE ***** + 4 TO HIT POINTS, + 4 TO MANA POINTS, + 3 TO BODY, + 3 TO MIND. +3 TO ASSIGN PER LEVEL.

  Lilli stirs awake and sits up with a yawn, “This is so strange, I feel really energized but kind of weak simultaneously. Is this what you felt like Mick? Karnna you’re awake how are you feeling?”

  “Ugh same, weird right?”

  “Well the good news is Tanner can put his hands on us and we will feel Sooo much better. Claire, Connie you guys don’t mind do you?” Lilli giggles.

  Claire sighs, “After Mick and Tanner had their moment together it seems pointless to object to more affairs.”

  Connie nods sagely. “At least he is doing this in front of us and not behind our backs.” Both girl's nod and grin at Tanner.

  “You realize I know where all of your ticklish spots are?”

  “You wouldn’t.” They claim. Tanner just gives them both a wicked grin. A smiling Lilli opens her Status Sheet as she eats a bowl of stew.

  **** TITIAN OF BATTLE SWORD BEARER (EPIC) ***** THIS CLASS WILL GRANT SPELLS *** (CLASS) TITIAN’S PHYSIQUE (LEVEL 1) *** (CLASS) SPELL CASTING. WITH THIS CLASS, YOU HAVE GAINED THE ABILITY TO CAST SPELLS. *** (CLASS SPELL) AURA OF FEAR *** (CLASS SKILL) TITIAN’S CHARGE ***** + 4 TO HIT POINTS, + 4 TO MANA POINTS, + 3 TO BODY, + 3 TO MIND. +3 TO ASSIGN PER LEVEL.

  Jackson wakes up a few minutes later. “How do you feel?” Rhys asks the young man.

  “Okay, I think, my head feels really full but empty? Crap that made no sense. Sorry.”

  Rhys give him a grin says “Hey you are the one feeling it not me. You feel what you feel.”

  After a filling bowl of stew, the group looks over Jackson’s Status Sheet.

  EPIC: YOU HAVE CHOSEN AN EPIC CLASS. **** OMNIKINETIC (LIMITED) ***** THIS CLASS WILL INCLUDE ALL EXISTING TALENTS, SPELLS, AND SKILLS. THIS CLASS IS AN ADVANCED CLASS. NEW SPELLS PENDING

  *** NOTE *** *** THE ONLY LIMITS ARE YOUR IMAGINATION. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A UTILITY / CONTROL CLASS.) ***** + 4 TO HIT POINTS, + 4 TO MANA POINTS, + 2 TO BODY, + 4 TO MIND. +3 TO ASSIGN PER LEVEL

  After looking over Jackson’s Status Sheet, Tanner gives an exaggerated sigh. “Figures Jackson would take on a Jester Class.” As the others double over laughing.

  “I hate you all.”

  Tanner grins at him. “It actually looks really impressive. I can see a lot of uses for the spells and skills given. How do you feel? Up for a little sparring? We need to test a few thing out and come up with some strategies.”

  “You bet.” Jackson grins. After getting a handle on the three’s new class powers, the group begins the hunt once more. Soon Karnna’s Status sheet shows.

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  “I need to Tier up. I just got Level Eleven.”

  Tanner walks over and hands her a cup, “Sit down drink this then select YES.”

  “Okay thanks,” she says with a brilliant smile.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT TIER ***** + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  “Looks like we have time to get Jax to Level Eleven today after all. I just Tiered up guys. Tanner do you have any tea? I’m kind of thirsty.” Lilli says with a cheeky smile as she sits down. Laughing, Tanner hands her the teacup.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT TIER ***** + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  Gaining level 11, Jackson announces, “Level up, and tea time.” Jackson grins at Tanner, holding out his hand.

  “Have some tea, Jackson.” Tanner grins back.

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT TIER ***** + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.

  The next morning’s dawn finds the decuplet prepared, geared up, and cooking breakfast before the older delvers are up. As Bree and Rhys join the rest for breakfast, Tanner asks if everyone is ready to get Milly tiered up and become the awesome Mage everyone knows her to be. Getting agreements from all, they depart to the west. Smashing through a few patrols, the group climbs a large hill. Tanner reaches the crest first. Dropping to his knees, he makes the sign for hold in place. As he looks in the direction of travel, he realizes no one has seen him. Sneaking back to the rest of the party, he reports. “I think we found the western mini-boss. We need to move forward carefully and keep low. It is a big fort.” Move cautiously up the ridge, lay down before we go over the top. With the sun behind us, we will stick out like dirt on a new-painted fence. Tanner low crawls to the ridge top. The others following Tanner’s example follow him up. The group overlooks a large wooden palisade.

  Jackson whispers. “Is that a mine?”

  “Looks like it.” Mick mutters.

  Claire asks in a low voice. “So three walls butting to the mountain. How high would you say the walls are?”

  Milly whispers. “Maybe ten feet high, only one gate facing us on the east side. I see a large building, a barracks maybe, by the mine entrance, a barracks on the north side against the wall and a barracks on the south side against the wall. The center building must be the boss's quarters. I see Three goblins on each wall, and two at the gate.”

  “So far I’ve counted around twenty goblin fighters and three hobgoblins. The traffic in and out of the mine is too much for me to get a count of the miners.” Tanner whispers, moving back down the hill. “Let’s back away, we can’t take this yet. Fall back and head southeast. We can take out patrols and camps on the way. Scout, the southern boss. Then move northeast and scout the eastern boss. Work to the north west scout the Dungeon Boss. Work our way southwest back to here. If we take every goblin we encounter on the way, we may even be around level twelve. Or thirteen. We should be able to take this place when we come back.”

  Five patrols later, Dylan announces Level 10. “Sorry guys the goblins are all tougher now, it’s taking longer to kill them.”

  “It’s okay Dylan we will get there it is just going to take us a little longer.” Milly says to him, with a clap to his back.

  Milly stops dead. “Uh guys this camp has a hobgoblin.” She whispers, looking wide eyed back at everyone.

  Tanner moving up to her, “Okay we just take this one step at a time. Jackson you and Milly take the lookouts just like we have been. Then meet up here.” The couple nod and take off. The party moves back a few feet after watching the camp. Once Jax and Milly rejoin them. Tanner lays out his attack plan. “The five goblins to the left of the campfire are all Level Nine, Claire, Dylan, Jackson, and Milly those are your targets. Iris and I will take the two Level Ten’s on the right of the campfire. The last Level nine goblin is under the hobgoblin, she is Level Twelve.”

  Milly asks puzzled, “What is it doing under the hobgoblin, and how do you know it is a she?”

  Karnna snickers, “Well she is not wearing pants, and the goblin is a boy.” Milly, mouth open, blinks twice and flushes beat red.

  Mick shakes his head at his sister and says, “Focus people, or one of us is going to get hurt,”

  “As I was about to say, the hobgoblin is our three Titans target. Karnna or Lilli take out her playmate first. Then attack the hobgoblin. You two can decide who kills it. As each team finishes, help the others out, if anyone needs help, call out. Connie, you are on heals for the Titans. They are primary, then Claire and her team. I have Iris, so don’t worry about us unless I call for you. Got it?” Everyone agrees to the plan.

  Flashing hand signals for a countdown, Tanner casts Arcane Explosion in the campfire. Mick, Karnna, and Lilli charge to the hobgoblin. Karnna leaps, slamming her axe into the Level Nine goblin's mouth, chopping his head in two. Mick smacks his shield on the hobgoblin’s back, knocking her off of her dead lover. As the hobgoblin rolls along the ground, Lilli kicks her opponents' weapons away. The hobgoblin stops rolling and gets to her feet. Karnna charges her axe, shining as it cleaves through her opponent's unarmored knee.

  Dylan, using both hands, alternates casting Fire and Earth Bolts into his target. The goblin screams as fire hits its groin, earth hits its abdomen, fire to the chest and earth to the face, in rapid secession. Claire throws Primal Bolts at two goblin heads, one hits and the goblin falls moaning, the other misses and travels off into the woods. Milly’s lightning burns the fourth goblin, leaving it a shuddering smoking mess. Dylan casts a ball of water over the fifth goblin's head as the goblin runs around attempting to get away from the water. Claire fires off another Primal bolt at the Goblin she missed, this time hitting it in the head and dropping it to the ground.

  Tanner casts Arcane missiles to his target's head. The three missiles punch the goblin's face, spinning it to the ground in pain. Blood and teeth spray across his partner’s eyes. The goblin wipes its eyes clear just in time for Iris in cat form to land on its head, raking its face with her back paws.

  The Titans, taking advantage of their opponents, unarmored bottom half. Continue attacking her bare legs. Lilli dances around the hobgoblin, slicing her sword along creature’s hamstrings. Mick shield bashes the hobgoblin’s shoulders. Overbalanced, she plants face first to the dirt. Karnna sets her feet and brings her axe up and around like a lumberjack splitting a log, chopping through the creature's lower back, ending the fight.

  Milly casts a Lightning Bolt at Dylan’s first target. Causing it to scream and jump up running. Claire throws a Primal Bolt from each hand in a one, two combination picking the goblin off of its feet and slamming it back to the ground moaning. Dylan launches Fire Bolts at Claire’s First target, the goblin unable to recover lays screaming as it burns. Claire cast another Primal Bolt at her second target as it spasms on the ground. Dylan’s second target is on its hands and knees vomiting water.

  Milly runs and stabs her spear through each of the wounded goblins, racking up another five kills. “Level Ten.” she announces. “Claire’s kills from now on.”

  Claire runs to Tanner and Iris, killing the last remaining goblins.

  When Connie screams, “Jackson. Jackson's down. Oh Goddess. Oh Goddess.” As she runs to him. Jackson staggers out of the tree line, two arrows in his chest. Blooded spear in hand.

  Falling to his knees, he gasps, “We missed a lookout. But I got him before he could hurt anyone.” Collapsing on his side. Rhys and Connie move toward Jackson, simultaneously bumping into each other slightly.

  “Sorry Connie,” Rhys says to the young healer.

  Connie, giving Rhys a startled look, tells him no problem. Connie backs off and intently watches Rhys work. After a few minutes, Connie walks over to Bree and touches her shoulder. “I wanted to express my gratitude for everything you've done for me. I am grateful. Just in case I don't get another opportunity.”

  Bree, smiling and clasping Connie’s hand on her shoulder, says to the younger woman. “Thank you. Rhys and I will make sure you all make it out alright.” Connie walks away from Bree with a troubled look.

  Okay, everybody, we are done for the day. Let’s move out of this mess and find a better place to camp. The group heads off in to the wood line. Rhys follows, carrying the unconscious Jackson.

  “Tanner can you help me, I have an idea for training my Essence, but I think I may need you to help.”

  “Okay, is here good?”

  “No I’d like things a little more private.” Connie replies, blushing.

  “I’ll follow you.” Tanner follows Connie off to the side of the camp. Connie stops and tells him, “Here.” Connie lays out blankets on the ground. Connie sits and shows the spot for Tanner in front of her. As Tanner sits facing her, Connie takes his hands in both of hers. With a serious look into his eyes, she asks if he can make a privacy bubble like Rhys does.

  “I can try I have never done it before. I have watched Rhys many times, I think I can figure it out. Concentrating for a few minutes a bubble springs into place. “How is that?” Tanner smiles proudly.

  Connie, showing nerves for the first time, takes a deep breath. “Do you trust me?”

  “Of course, what kind of question is that?”

  “I think that Rhys and the Empress are both Cursed.” A startled Tanner looks over at the two, when Connie hisses, “Don’t look.” Tanner stops himself with an effort of will.

  “Why do you think this?”

  “When I bumped into Rhys, I felt it. Then I went to the Empress and touched her shoulder I felt the same thing. It feels like a Curse.”

  “Your Affinity I take it?”

  “Yes, I have been feeling it all along, I didn’t know what it was. Then when I touched them I just knew.”

  “I believe you. I get odd insights sometimes too.” Tanner answers her thoughtfully.

  “I thought you might look them over and see something?”

  “Uh maybe, I really don’t know anything much about curses.”

  “Curses can be attached to a person or an object. Sometimes a cursed object will transfer the curse to the person who touches it. Some curses are fed from the persons Essences or they can be fed from an external source.”

  “How do you know all of that?” Tanner asks in surprise.

  “The memory crystals on Infernal and Celestial covers this.”

  “I think we should bring this up with Eunice, when we get out of here.” Tanner says firmly.

  “No, she has it too.” Connie insists.

  “What about the rest of the Imps?” He asks, looking horrified. Connie nods her head with tears in her eyes.

  “We need to talk to Claire.”

  “No not until she Tiers up. I have a feeling everything will turn out bad if we tell her before.” Connie says, biting her lip.

  “I will look at them and see if I can find anything. We will figure this out.” Tanner gives her a long, tight hug.

  “Well?” Claire asks after Tanner returns.

  “Connie wants to train a few things. She thinks my Arcane Essences can help her sense Celestial like Eunice did with us, or at least point her in a direction.”

  “Oh did it work?”

  “We think so, too early to tell.” Tanner answers absently, staring at Rhys.

  “Maybe I can help?” Claire asks.

  “She doesn’t want to bring you in until you Tier up. She has a feeling it will turn out better.” Tanner replies, still looking at Rhys.

  “Okay.” Claire replies as she snuggles into him. “Why are you looking at Rhys so intently?” Claire suddenly asks him.

  “I am using Arcane sight, it is really fascinating.”

  “Okay, why Mother too.”

  “I look at everybody with it.”

  “Really? Why?”

  Tanner, turning to look at her, grins. “Training.”

  With a sigh, Claire tells him. “You are such a dungeon head.” He looks over Claire’s head and nods somberly at Connie.

  The next morning, “Well lets go. I have some levels to get.” Claire says, dancing around and throwing punches.

  “You hang around Penny way too much Claire.” Mick tells the girl with a laugh.

  Two hours later. “Level 10 Class time. Whoo Hooo.” Claire announces. As Rhys and Bree smile over Claire’s antics, Bree tells the decuplet to find a place for camp.

  “You ladies can go before me.” Dylan tells the other two. “No Dylan you are next, you need and want this just as much as we do.” Claire tells the boy. “Plus we agreed on the order we would do this. So you sir are next.” Milly tells him. “Okay then here is my Status Sheet.”

  Dylan's Class Choices

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE — LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS. NOTE: YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO ORIGIN ESSENCE OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: CLASS EVOLUTION: ELEMENTAL MAGE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE. RARE: MAGE OF THE FOUR ELEMENTS. A NEW CLASS HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED, THIS MAGE CAN WIELD THE FOUR ELEMENTS. BY HARNESSING THE POWER OF WIND, WATER, FIRE, AND EARTH, THIS MAGE EXCELS IN OFFENSE AND CROWD CONTROL. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE / CONTROL CLASS).

  RARE: ELEMENTALIST, THIS MAGE IS IN TUNE WITH THE ELEMENTAL DIMENSIONS THAT EXIST SIDE BY SIDE WITH THE WORLD. ABLE TO PIERCE THE VAILS AND CALL FOR THE LIVING BEINGS TO DO YOUR BIDDING. THESE SUMMONED OFTEN ARE ANGRY AND RELUCTANT AND DESIRE TO RETURN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. WARNING: OPEN PORTALS TO OTHER REALMS CAN LEAK ENVIRONMENT FROM ONE MICROCOSM TO ANOTHER. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. ***IF CHOSEN, THE CLASS MAY EVOLVE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT CLASS)

  RARE: ELEMENTAL SORCERER, ABLE TO CAST DAMAGING ELEMENTAL SPELLS. THIS CLASS SUMMONS ELEMENTAL GOLEMS FROM THIS PLANE TO FIGHT ALONGSIDE HIM AND HIS PARTY. THIS MAGE CAN SUMMON A COMPANION, A PERMANENT SUMMON. THIS COMPANION ACTS MUCH LIKE A BONDED BATTLE PET. WARNING: YOU MUST SPECIALIZE IN ONE ELEMENT AT THIS TIME. NEW ELEMENTS CAN BE ADDED AT HIGHER TIERS. THIS CLASS HAS BEEN INFLUENCED BY ORIGIN ESSENCE EXPOSURE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: MAGUS, THESE CASTERS SPECIALIZE IN SINGLE ELEMENTAL MASTERY. THEY BECOME ONE WITH THEIR CHOSEN ELEMENT. **** CLASS UPGRADED DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCES. **** UNIQUE: WIZARD MEANING OF THE WISE, THIS STORIED CASTER OF MYTH AND LEGEND IS A MASTER OF ALL ELEMENTS. OFTEN COMBINING THEM INTO NEW ELEMENTAL FORMS. THIS CLASS IS ALL ABOUT MASTERY. THE SUBTLE INFLUENCE OF FIRE MIXED WITH AIR AND WATER, THE EXPLORATION OF THE COMBINED ELEMENTS. ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH TRUE MASTERY (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT / CONTROL / DAMAGE CLASS)

  “It’s always the quiet ones.” Jackson laughs.

  Dylan shakes his head, looking over his Status Sheet. “I can’t believe this, Karnna do you see. This is the best day of my life. Thank you guys for taking me, us in. Iris what do you think I should do?”

  Iris sits beside the overwhelmed young man and takes hold of his hand. “First, take a deep depth. Yes your choices are amazing. No matter what you choose, you are a good man. Let’s take them one at a time.”

  Bree nods her head. “Sound advice Iris. Dylan take a moment to settle yourself. Read over everything carefully we will all help, okay?”

  “Yes of course, I just never expected such wonderful Class choices for myself. The first choice is pretty much how I am fighting now it just has expanded Spells. I want more than that. The second choice seem dangerous to others. I think is is more of a solo Delver’s choice. I don’t like the idea of having to choose just one element. Even if I can get more later. I like the Magus or I should say the Wizard Class.”

  Rhys asks, “Why? Is it just because you see power? I know that Class will put some noses out of joint in your former clan.”

  “No sir, I can see the Wizard Class will be better for the party.” Dylan’s voice trails off, “And it is the way I see myself fighting.”

  Iris laughs, “Those are the right reasons to chose it. Now lay down and close your eyes and wake as my wizard.” Dylan lies down with a smile, closing his eyes. He falls asleep with Iris’s hand in his.

  “If I get anything half as good as he did. I’ll be a lucky woman.” Milly says while laying out her bedroll. “Uh Jackson could you hold my hand, please I’m nervous.”

  “Of course, you’ve been there for me.” Milly shows her Status sheet as Jax sits down beside her.

  Milly's Class Choices

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS. NOTE: YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO ORIGIN ESSENCE OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD. ** THIS HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  UNCOMMON: TEMPEST MAGE ** CLASS EVOLUTION DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE ****RARE: TEMPEST ***** NEW CLASS HAS BEEN CREATED, ***THIS MAGE IS ABLE TO USE WEATHER AS A WEAPON. UTILIZING THE POWER OF THE STORM, THIS MAGE EXCELS AT DAMAGE AND CONTROL. UITILIZING THE POWER OF THE SEASONS THIS MAGE SPECIALIZES IN AREA OF EFFECT DAMAGE AND CONTROL. UPON CHOOSING SUMMER THE MAGE’S FOCUS TURNS TO THE VIOLENT STORMS OF WIND AND RAIN. HIGH WINDS, TORRENTIAL RAIN, THUNDER AND LIGHTENING ARE THE TOOLS OF THIS MAGE. UPON CHOOSING WINTER THE MAGE PUSHES THE CHILL OF WINTER TO THE BONES OF HER ENEMIES. FREEZING WATER FROM THE SKY, HIGH WINDS, AND THE BITTER CHILL CONTROL THE BATTLE FIELD WHEN THIS MAGE IS ACTIVE. A CHOICE MUST BE MADE BETWEEN SUMMER AND WINTER. (THIS IS A DAMAGE / CONTROL CLASS.)

  RARE: WEATHER MAGE, THIS IS A MAGE USEFUL BOTH ON AND OFF THE BATTLEFIELD. ABLE TO SENSE PROBABLE WEATHER PATTERNS IN NATURE THIS MAGE USES THE SPELLS OF NATURE’S FURY TO STRIKE FOES OR PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED GENTLE RAIN TO FARMERS OF THE FIELD. *** IF CHOSEN, THE CLASS MAY EVOLVE DUE TO EXPOSURE TO ORIGIN ESSENCE **** (THIS IS CONSIDERED A SUPPORT CLASS)

  EPIC: STORM CALLER, THIS CLASS USES BROAD AREA OF EFFECT SPELLS. ENTIRE ARMIES HAVE BEEN FROZEN IN PLACE BEFORE BATTLE CAN BEGIN. HEAVY RAINS TRANSFORM THE GROUND TO MUD. FLAT PLAINS BECOME SMALL PONDS AND LAKES. THIS CLASS HAS BEEN INFLUENCED BY ORIGIN ESSENCE EXPOSURE. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS).

  EPIC: STORM RIDER. BEARERS OF THIS CLASS DO NOT CALL THE STORM OR EVEN USE THE STORM, THEY ARE THE STORM. USING PRECISE CONTROL FOR SINGLE TARGET OR AOE. THESE MAGES RIDE THE LIGHTENING AND CAST THE SOUND OF THUNDER, WHEN THE STORM RIDER COMES, TAKE SHELTER FOR DEATH HAS COME CALLING. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A DAMAGE / CONTROL CLASS)

  “Only four choices but damn Sis.”

  “Guys a little help here, I don’t know what to choose.”

  Connie says, “The second choice seems more large scale, it talks about battle fields and armies. If you take that Class will you, or can you harm us on accident?”

  Bree interrupts, “That would be yes, sizable area of effect or AOE spells do have a component of friendly fire, they are so large that fine control is almost impossible.”

  Milly nods her head. “Well that one is out then the spells may start off small now but when they grow with me, ouch. I am not sure about limiting myself with the first one.”

  Rhys tells the girl. “Often when we have to make a choice between one thing and another, the choice we make becomes much stronger than if we had both powers. So it becomes more of a trade off.”

  Jax shakes his head. “Milly we all know you will not be happy with that choice. You want the bad ass choice.”

  “Well yeah but I want to support the party too, I don’t want to get kicked out because my Class don’t fit.”

  Tanner shakes his head. “Milly. That will not happen ever, as long as I am leader you all have the positions you want and the roles you want. We can adjust our fighting style but you people are far more important to me than your Class.” The rest of the party speaks up in agreement.

  “Alright then.” She says, lying down and clutching Jax’s hand. Milly closes her eyes and whispers, “Jax I’m scared please stay with me?” Jax nods his head. As she says under her breath and closes her eyes even tighter, “Storm Rider.”

  “Well these are my Class choices.” Claire announces.

  Claire's Class Choices

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED A MILESTONE. LEVEL 10. YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU CAN NOW CHOOSE A CLASS******

  CLASS CHOICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: NOTE HAVING AN ORIGIN ESSENCE AFFINITY HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES. EXPOSURE TO OTHER ORIGIN ESSENCES HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CLASS CHOICES.

  COMMON: WARRIOR, THIS AGILITY-BASED WARRIOR USES THE MARTIAL SKILLS OF ALL OF YOUR TRAINERS, FROM THE BOW TO THE TWO-HANDED SWORD. USING HEAVY CHAIN ARMOR THIS DAMAGE WARRIOR USES THEIR WEAPONS TO DAMAGE OPPONENTS *****NOTE WILL SYNERGIZE WITH YOUR PRIMAL AFFINITY TO BECOME THE * PRIMAL KNIGHT CLASS, THE PRIMAL KNIGHT CASTS SPELL EFFECTS ON HER WEAPONS INCREASING DAMAGE DONE.(THIS IS CONSIDERED A OFFENSIVE CLASS). THIS WILL UPGRADE THE CLASS TO UNCOMMON.

  UNCOMMON: PRIMAL LANCER. THIS WARRIOR USES THE MARTIAL SKILLS OF THE SWORD-STAFF AND MEDIUM ARMOR. THIS DAMAGE WARRIOR USES THEIR WEAPON AS A SPELL FOCUS. WEAPONS SKILLS DEAL WEAPONS DAMAGE AND SPELL EFFECTS. NOTE: SWORD STAFF REQUIRED FOR SPELL CASTING. THESE FIERCE WARRIORS RULE THE BATTLE FIELD AND BEYOND ***** (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS). YOU WILL HAVE DISCOVERED A NEW FIGHTING DISCIPLINE.

  RARE: PRIMAL BATTLE MAGE, THIS CLASS USES THE FIGHTING SKILLS OF A WARRIOR FOR CLOSE RANGE DAMAGE AND THE MEDIUM TO LONG RANGE SPELL CRAFT OF A MAGE TO DEVASTATING EFFECT ON THE BATTLEFIELD. PRIMAL ENERGY WILL BE USED TO EMPOWER WEAPON’S STRIKES, ARMOR AND SPELLS. PRIMAL POINTS WILL BECOME AVAILABLE INSTEAD OF HIT POINTS AND MANA POINTS. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS)

  EPIC: PRIMAL MAGE, FORGOING THE USE OF ALL WEAPONS, THIS CASTER CLASS EXCELS IN THE USE OF SPELLS OF ALL TYPES FROM THE ORIGIN ESSENCES OF PRIMAL. FROM CRAFTING TO COMBAT. THIS CLASS REPLACES MANA FOR PRIMAL ESSENCE FOR ALL SPELLS CAST. THE SUBSTITUTION OF PRIMAL ENERGY FOR MANA INCREASES SPELL EFFECTS, DURATION, AND DAMAGE FOR ALL SPELLS CAST. NOTE HIT POINTS, AND MANA POINTS COMBINE TO BECOME PRIMAL POINTS. DAMAGE TAKEN AND SKILL USAGE ARE SUBTRACTED FROM PRIMAL POINTS. (THIS IS CONSIDERED AN OFFENSIVE CLASS)

  UNIQUE: THIS CLASS WILL BE UNIQUE TO YOU. **** PRIMAL MASTER***** THIS CLASS WILL COMBINE TALENT, SKILLS, AND SPELLS TO USE PRIMAL ESSENCES. PRIMAL MANIPULATION (LEVEL 5). ALL PRIMAL SPELLS. DAMAGE BONUSES AND THE SKILL: * STUDY BECOMES * PRIMAL STUDY. YOU WILL BECOME A MASTER OF PRIMAL ESSENSE MANIPULATION (WITH EFFORT.) *** NOTE *** HIT POINTS, AND MANA POINTS WILL COMBINE AND CONVERT INTO PRIMAL POINTS. *** THE ONLY LIMITS ARE YOUR IMAGINATION. (THIS IS CONSIDERED A UTILITY CLASS; HOWEVER, CONTROL, DEFENSE, OFFENSE, FRONT LINE, DAMAGE DEALER, EVEN HEALING, ARE ALL POSSIBLE WITH EFFORT).

  “I honestly want to go with the UNIQUE class like Tanner and Connie did. For the same reasons. Does anyone have an objection or argument for this?” Claire asks. As the rest all agree with her choice, Claire nods her head and chooses Primal Master.

  “Hmm a lot of the same things Tanner and Connie has. Just with Primal Essences.” Bree observers.

  “I would think the basic mechanics will be the same. After all, they are only at Tier One and just received a Class. Look at a basic warrior same at the lower levels nothing really starts to customize until the second tier.” Rhys informs her.

  Laughing Bree says, “Good point I have gotten so used to these guys surprising me I have started expecting more.”

  “Claire lets get you accustomed to your Class, We maybe able to Tier you up today.” Tanner says, giving her a hug and whispering, “Nice job, if our class is basically the same maybe Connie and I can help you.”

  “Okay.”

  Rhys, once again in instructor mode, paces in front of his assembled students. “Alright gang, now that everyone is awake, Classed, and has practiced a little. I would like to tell you all you all made the correct choices. Unique or Epic Classes are all almost always better and much more powerful. The only drawback is more experience is needed to Level.”

  Lilli raises her hand. “Why didn’t you tell us that from the start?”

  Milly, surprising everyone, answers, “That would have influenced our choice and we may have taken the Class for the wrong reasons. This made us think about the choice, the reasons why we wanted it, and how to use it.”

  Bree nods in approval at Milly. “Guys we have around six more hours of daylight left should be plenty of time to get the last of you to Tier up before we make camp. Let us get cracking.”

  After working almost all the way back to the Western mini-boss. Claire, last to Tier, gets her level increase. “Well, guys, time to Tier up. I just hit level 11.”

  “Wait, drink this please.” Tanner stops her.

  “Tea? Okay” She agrees.

  *****CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR SECOND MILESTONE. YOU HAVE REACHED LEVEL 11. YOU ARE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY OF THE TIERS. DO YOU WISH TO ADVANCE AT THIS TIME? YES OR NO.

  YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF. YOU HAVE EARNED A PERFECT FOUNDATION, HAVING MAXIMIZED YOUR ATTRIBUTES AT TIER ‘0’ ****** NEW MAJOR TITLE GRANTED ***** PERFECT TIER ***** + 1 TO EACH ATTRIBUTE PER LEVEL. + 25% TO ALL EXPERIENCE GAINED.

  *** New Quest. ‘RESTORE WHAT WAS BROKEN’ You cannot refuse this quest line. Congratulations. By accepting your first quest, you have earned one level. Only those who have accepted this quest can discuss it with others.